Turner launches annual holiday card drive for local seniors

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Doris Turner is kicking off her annual holiday card drive to spread cheer this holiday season for residents at local long-term care facilities.

“We often lose track of what’s most important this season – and that’s spreading joy,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “Everyone enjoys a small, yet meaningful, act of kindness during the holidays.”

Turner is encouraging residents to write handmade or store-bought cards to help bring joy to older adults who may be feeling lonely or isolated during the holidays. Children are also encouraged to participate.

Cards can be mailed or delivered now through Dec. 17 to Turner’s Capitol office located at 401 S. Spring St., Section F, Office B, Springfield, IL 62706 or Turner’s Decatur office located at 1210 S. Jasper St., Decatur, IL 62321.

For more information, contact Turner’s office at 217-782-0228.

Turner supports legislation to give property tax relief to seniors

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Doris Turner backed a property tax relief package that increases property tax exemption thresholds for senior citizens in Illinois.

“Seniors worked their entire lives to build a foundation for themselves,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “By expanding the number of seniors who qualify for property tax breaks, more seniors will get to stay in the homes they’ve worked their entire lives to build.”

Senate bill 642 would deliver critical updates to help seniors on fixed incomes and help families facing economic challenges manage rising property tax costs. Under the measure, the maximum income limit for the Low-Income Senior Citizens Assessment Freeze Homestead Exemption would increase substantially over the next several years, beginning at $75,000 for taxable year 2026, increasing to $77,000 for taxable year 2027 and settling at $79,000 for taxable year 2028 and beyond.

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Turner hosts turkey giveaway in Springfield

SPRINGFIELD – To kick off the giving season, State Senator Doris Turner has teamed up with Meridian to host a turkey giveaway ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday.

“Now more than ever, we need to give back to our communities,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “It’s important to provide a little more security in the form of a warm meal to those who need it most this season. Events like these truly showcase the spirit of the holiday season.”

The free giveaway will be held at the Greater All Nation Tabernacle located at 1000 S. 19th St. in Springfield on Friday, Nov. 14 at noon while supplies last. One turkey will be provided per household. ID is required to differentiate households per car.

For more information, call Turner’s office at 217-782-0228.

Turner: Decatur horse racing track brings energy, boosts economy

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Doris Turner is working to transform Macon County’s economy by greenlighting a new horse racing track – bringing the thunder of hooves, the roar of crowds and hundreds of good-paying jobs back to Decatur.

“This is a win-win that would revive Central Illinois while putting money back in the pockets of all Illinois residents,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “We're not just bringing jobs and economic opportunity back to Macon County – we're enhancing the horse racing industry and economic perks it will bring to the entire region.”

House Bill 2724 would allow for the construction of a new harness track in Macon County.

The new harness racing track in Decatur would be privately financed, requiring no state dollars. The proposal includes a mile-long harness racing track with grandstands, a sports complex and recreation fields, a gaming facility, retail, restaurants and lodging, more than 300 stalls and RV parking. The development projects 300 full-time jobs, 100% union labor and participation, and $27 million in annual, new revenue.

Turner stresses the unique opportunity for economic benefit in both counties in the 48th District with a commitment for infrastructure upgrades at the Illinois State Fairgrounds, while expanding year-round training opportunities, strengthening the entire regional horseracing ecosystem and safeguarding an important asset in our region and state.

“The horse-racing industry in Illinois is ready to ride again thanks to the Decatur Racino project,” said Decatur Mayor Julie Moore-Wolfe. “The racino is a game-changer for Decatur and Macon County as we revitalize horse racing in our state. My sincere appreciation to Senator Doris Turner for taking us to the finish line.”

House Bill 2724 passed the Senate on Thursday.