Turner, Fine outline measures to prioritize new mothers

SPRINGFIELD – State Senators Laura Fine and Doris Turner held a press conference Tuesday to introduce two measures that would support new mothers when it comes to feeding their babies.

“Working mothers are constantly juggling to find balance to provide for their children not only financially, but also emotionally and nutritionally,” said Fine (D-Glenview). “This measure will support working mothers by providing them time to breastfeed their baby during the work day without having to risk their economic interests.”

Fine’s measure, Senate Bill 212, would require employers to provide 30 minutes of paid break time to nursing mothers so they may express or "pump" breast milk for their child. Under current law, employers are required to provide a reasonable amount of time to nursing mothers to pump breast milk during the day. However, there’s no requirement that it be paid time and reasonable is not defined.

The Turner-led measure, Senate Bill 206, would require Medicaid to provide hypoallergenic formula when prescribed by a physician. Currently, Illinois' Women, Infants and Children program allows only certain infant formulas to be purchased using WIC funds, including one hypoallergenic option.

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Turner secures grant awards for economic growth

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Doris Turner secured over $3 million in awards for infrastructure projects in Decatur and Springfield from the Regional Site Readiness Program.

"We are committed to investing in the hardworking people of Central Illinois by boosting our economy and expanding job opportunities," said Turner (D-Springfield). "These projects will ensure we are in the best possible position to attract new job creators and take on future growth opportunities."

Through the bipartisan Rebuild Illinois capital plan, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity is investing in the full spectrum of industrial site readiness needs on sites over 50-acres throughout the state.

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Dana-Thomas House receives $6.6 million thanks to strong support from Turner

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Doris Turner secured $6.6 million to make improvements to the Dana-Thomas House in Springfield.

“The Dana-Thomas House is home to historic features designed by the well-known architect Frank Lloyd Wright,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “When we invest in our state’s historic sites, we invest in the community, boosting the local economy and inviting people from across the country to Illinois.”

Through the bipartisan Rebuild Illinois capital plan, five projects across the state received a combined total of more than $60 million in investments. The projects aim to address essential repairs, including water and wastewater systems, trail and bridge replacements, and site preservation efforts.

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Turner to continue advocating for Illinois ag as chair of Senate Agriculture Committee

• Agriculture

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Doris Turner has been named chair of the Senate Agriculture Committee for the 104^th General Assembly.

“Agriculture plays a vital role in our state,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “I’ve worked with local, state and federal leaders, stakeholders and advocates in the agriculture industry to improve the lives of our farmers, prioritize the industry and increase access to ag education.”

Turner has been a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee since 2021, serving as chair during the 103^rd General Assembly. Turner received the 2024 Friend of Agriculture award from the Illinois Farm Bureau for her support and understanding of the issues farmers face in the 48^th District.

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