Caucus News

SPRINGFIELD – People in Illinois will soon have a quicker way to know whether their medications have been recalled thanks to a new law sponsored by State Senator Doris Turner.

“People need to be up-to-date on what’s happening with their medications, especially for our seniors,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “I heard from a number of constituents who were unaware of recalls on their prescriptions, and it is clear that we need an avenue for people to instantly find answers on medications they take.”

Turner’s law will require licensed pharmacies in Illinois to post a clear and conspicuous sign near their pharmacy counter and drive-up window that includes a QR code informing patients of the ability to sign up for medication recalls via the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s website.

The new law will ensure patients can receive instant access to medication recall information without adding new mandates or responsibilities on pharmacists.

Senate Bill 3223 was signed into law Friday and takes effect Jan. 1.

DECATUR — State Senator Doris Turner fought for increased investment in ADM’s Decatur facility, bringing jobs and economic development to the community.

“ADM’s investment in Decatur is a powerful vote of confidence in our workforce and our community,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “This modernization will create new jobs and ensure Central Illinois remains a global leader in agriculture and food processing.”

SPRINGFIELD – Building on her strong support to bring economic development to Central Illinois, State Senator Doris Turner advanced a package through the Senate to revitalize downtown Springfield.

“I’ve been working with local leaders for four years to find a solution to spur economic development in downtown Springfield,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “This plan would do just that. Expanding the Bank of Springfield Center and bringing a headquartered hotel to downtown would create jobs, support small businesses in the area, boost the local economy and breathe new life into downtown.”

SPRINGFIELD – After meeting with a local student who can no longer take her service animal to school due to claims of harassment from other students, State Senator Doris Turner led a resolution to encourage the review of school policies, ensuring they align with laws regarding service animal access.

“Service animals offer critical assistance for individuals – helping to enhance independence and safety – and when students are in need of this specific accommodation at school, a lack of well-defined policies can lead to disability discrimination,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “No student should feel ostracized at school, and especially not because of a medical necessity like needing a service animal.”

Senate Resolution 542 recognizes the importance of service animals in the school setting and encourage a review of policies to ensure that all Illinois schools comply with disability rights laws governing service animal access. Under the federal Americans with Disabilities Act, service animals are to assist students in equally accessing public schools and are required to be permitted to accompany a student at all school activities, whether in or outside the classroom.

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Doris Turner celebrated the opening of the new SCHEELS Sports Park complex Tuesday. Projections indicate the facility will attract 250,000 annual visitors, generate an estimated $25 million in annual economic activity, and bring a significant boost to Springfield’s tourism industry. The new complex will also allow youth in Springfield and the surrounding area to access new, state-of-the-art sports facilities that provide opportunities for healthy physical activity and community engagement.

“The SCHEELS Sports Park development has been years in the making, but it’s not just a park — it will serve as a premier destination for a wide range of family-friendly and community events,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “We are seeing hundreds of people, from athletes to spectators to organizers, come to Springfield for tournaments each weekend, boosting our local economy and bringing in tourism dollars. This facility will have a lasting effect on the Springfield community for decades to come.”

SPRINGFIELD – To support all students, no matter their needs, State Senator Doris Turner championed a measure through the Senate to strengthen school policies that protect access to service animals for students with disabilities.

“We need to make sure students with service animals don’t face setbacks because of a lack of understanding or awareness of the law,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “We have a responsibility to make sure all students feel welcome at school.”

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Doris Turner proudly welcomed nearly $5 million in grant funding awarded to 66 grantees to boost tourism and economic development in Central Illinois and across the state.

“Visitors are flocking to Illinois in record numbers to see hidden gems and world-renowned destinations,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “Thanks to the state’s tourism grant programs, communities will be able to further promote events, improve attractions, and develop new and enhanced festivals across Illinois.”

SPRINGFIELD – In an effort to boost small businesses, State Senator Doris Turner is leading a measure to set aside reinvestment funds for capital expenses, such as building improvements, equipment and technology.

“Small businesses are the backbone of our communities, boosting local economies while bringing entertainment, food and more to our neighborhoods,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “It’s important that we give business owners the necessary tools to help them be successful, expand and thrive.”

Senate Bill 3614 would create the Small Business Asset Purchase Account for small businesses to deposit reinvestment funds. The measure would allow a 50% income tax deduction in the tax year the small-business owner contributes the funds and another 50% income tax deduction in the tax year the small-business owner withdraws the funds.