Welcome to Illinois State Senator Doris Turner's Legislative Website

Turner secures strong investment to expand Central Illinois’ workforce training

SPRINGFIELD – In an effort to expand workforce training, State Senator Doris Turner helped secure nearly $820,000 to connect workers with the skills and resources they need to enter in-demand careers while helping employers build the qualified workforce they need to grow.

“When we invest in workforce training, we’re opening the door so that more students and people in our communities can receive the hands-on training that can turn into a secure and stable career,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “We have worked to expand opportunities and bring more jobs to Central Illinois, and key investments like this directly help grow the workforce pipeline.”

More than $11 million in funding was awarded to 23 organizations across Illinois through the Job Training and Economic Development Program, aimed to expand workforce training, career pathways and support services for Illinoisans facing barriers to employment. JTED addresses the economic impacts experienced by employers and individuals who are underemployed, unemployed or underrepresented, including youth who have one or more barriers to employment.

In the district Turner represents, One On One was awarded nearly $600,000 and the Illinois Manufacturer’s Association received nearly $220,000.

A full list of awardees can be found here.

Turner encourages local organizations to apply for pre-apprenticeship funding

SPRINGFIELD – To expand the 48th District talent pipeline and boost diversity in Illinois’ construction and building trades, State Senator Doris Turner is encouraging local community-based organizations to apply for the latest round of funding through the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program. 

“The Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program continues to be successful across the state, especially here in Central Illinois and the 48th District,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “This program provides an opportunity to acquire skills that will help foster long-term career success.”

The Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program launched in 2021 through the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity with the goal of increasing access to apprenticeship programs to a more diverse pool of candidates. These comprehensive pre-apprenticeship programs help participants gain admission to apprenticeship programs, which provide graduates a greater opportunity to start a long-term career in the trades. Since the program’s inception, Illinois Works has awarded over $70 million to community-based organizations serving over 7,000 Illinois residents.

Participants of the program attend tuition-free and receive a stipend and other supportive barrier reduction services to help enter the construction industry. Upon completion of the program, pre-apprentices receive industry-aligned certifications, which will prepare and qualify them to continue to a registered apprenticeship program in one of the trades.

Eligible applicants include nonprofit, community-based organizations, such as industry associations, chambers of commerce, local workforce areas, community colleges, technical schools and school districts. To view the Notice of Funding Opportunity and apply for the grant, please visit the DCEO website. Interested parties are encouraged to reach out to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for application assistance.

Turner announces funding for 48th District libraries, literacy programs

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Doris Turner is proud to announce six libraries in the 48th District will be receiving nearly $750,000 for literacy program enhancements, workplace skills development and more.

“Libraries are the cornerstone of every community, and this funding will ensure they continue to serve everyone,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “People of all ages can benefit from the educational resources, programming, and the number of other services offered by our libraries, making this funding so crucial.”

The latest round of funding through the Illinois Secretary of State includes more than $28 million for library services and literacy programs throughout Illinois. The grants will enhance online catalogs at local libraries, support day-to-day operations and expand interlibrary loan programs.

Funding also supports radio information services that provide local news and information to individuals who cannot read standard print materials. Literacy grants promote basic reading, math, writing and English language skills through adult, family and workplace literacy programs.

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Turner law expands opportunities for students with disabilities

SPRINGFIELD – To increase awareness of work incentives for students with a disability, schools are now required to share informational materials with parents and guardians under a new law sponsored by State Senator Doris Turner.

“We have to ensure students, no matter their disability, are set up for success,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “Programs, jobs and opportunities are out there – we need to take the extra step to make sure families and students know and understand them so the student can thrive as they transition out of high school.”

The Work Incentives Planning and Assistance program is a federally funded initiative created to help individuals receiving Social Security Disability Insurance and/or Supplemental Security Income make informed choices about employment. House Bill 4581 requires informational materials on the Work Incentives Planning and Assistance program to be provided to a student and the student's parent or guardian at both the initial transition planning meeting convened for a student with a disability by the school district and during the student's final year in high school.

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