Turner encourages farmers, producers to apply for food systems infrastructure grants

• Agriculture

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Doris Turner is encouraging eligible farmers and food producers to apply for food systems infrastructure grants to help uplift their business and tackle food insecurity.

“By fortifying the food system, we are supporting our local farmers and mitigating food insecurity,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “Everyone benefits when we empower our local farmers.”

The Resilient Food System Infrastructure program announced $6.4 million in grant funds are available to help strengthen the state’s food supply chain. Funds for this grant come from the Illinois Department of Agriculture and seek to build upon Illinois’ investments in local food and ending food insecurity.

Those interested should apply online at Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure Program by March 15. Applications from smaller farms and ranches, new and beginning farmers and ranchers, underserved producers, veteran producers, and underserved communities are encouraged.

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Turner launches annual Valentine’s Day card drive for seniors

• Card Drive

SPRINGFIELD – In an effort to lift the spirits of seniors across the 48th District, State Senator Doris Turner invites residents of all ages to get creative and donate homemade or store-bought valentines.

“Seniors play an important role in our community and writing them a note can remind them they’re appreciated,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “Taking time out of our day to do a little act of kindness can go a long way to make someone feel loved this Valentine’s Day. We’ve had successful card drives in the past, and I hope we can continue making our seniors feel recognized this year.”

Turner is encouraging community members in the area to write Valentine’s Day cards, which can be dropped off or mailed to her Decatur or Springfield district office. Once all the cards have been collected, they will be delivered to various senior facilities in the 48th District.

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Turner secures funding for local school libraries

• Grant Funding

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Doris Turner announced five school districts across the 48^th District have received nearly $18,000 to provide resources to libraries through books, e-books, audiobooks, periodicals, multilingual materials, technology and programs.

“Investing in our libraries is essential for students to have the fundamental resources that provide educational value,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “We have to continue prioritizing our students to set them up to be lifelong learners.”

Based on a statutory formula, school districts receive $0.885 per student enrolled at each school with a qualified library. Funding for the School District Library Grant Program originates from the General Reserve Fund and is appropriated for this purpose by the Illinois General Assembly.

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Motorcyclists prioritized under Turner laws

• Motorcycles

SPRINGFIELD – Motorcyclists no longer have to complete a duplicate driver’s test and will be more visible under two new laws sponsored by State Senator Doris Turner.

“We are easing the process for motorcyclists to get their license without taking repetitive, unnecessary tests,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “Removing this redundancy will simplify the process for motorcyclists, allowing them to enjoy Illinois’ roads.”

House Bill 2582 removes the requirement for a motorcyclist under the age of 18 to complete a motorcycle driver's examination with the Secretary of State. Previously, 16- to 17-year-old motorcyclists were required to complete a Cycle Driver Testing Course provided by the Illinois Department of Transportation and an additional examination by the Secretary of State.

Turner also led Senate Bill 896 which allows a motorcycle to be equipped with two forward-facing electric turn signals that emit a white or amber light. Two driving lights can be added that display a steady white or amber light in addition to the already required headlamps. Lastly, the law allows a motorcycle to be equipped with red-light auxiliary lighting to use while braking.

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