Press Releases

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Doris Turner announced the Illinois Workforce Pell, a new program expanding on the federal Pell Grant by allowing eligible students to use grant funding for short-term workforce training programs aligned with in-demand occupations, is now accepting applications.

“Expanding access to workforce training will open the door for more students to learn high quality skills in high demand jobs,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “As a strong supporter of career and technical education, I know this will continue building a talented workforce for our state.”

By extending Pell eligibility to shorter-term programs, Workforce Pell broadens access to a more affordable path to a recognized credential, tied to employer-validated, high-skill, high-wage or in-demand jobs across the state. Illinois developed a rigorous approval process to ensure participating programs meet high standards for quality, workforce alignment and student outcomes – protecting students while ensuring public investments support credentials with strong labor market value.

Eligible programs are required to demonstrate strong completion and job placement outcomes, employer-validated demand and reasonable tuition relative to graduates' expected earnings – all to ensure that Illinois students can pursue short-term workforce training with confidence. The program also supports the state's broader economic development goals by aligning training investments with the skills employers need across Illinois.

The application for the first round of approvals is now open and closes Aug. 31. Institutions can apply here.

SPRINGFIELD – Building on her support for the bipartisan Rebuild Illinois program, State Senator Doris Turner announced $192 million in funding for nine projects to upgrade roads and bridges in the Springfield area.

“The bipartisan Rebuild Illinois capital program has positively impacted the state, and these local infrastructure investments come at a critical time to help downstate transportation,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “Investing in Central Illinois’ transportation is vital, as it will continue to create jobs, promote economic growth and keep residents safe when traveling.”

Of the nine major projects in the Springfield area, five are scheduled to be completed in 2026, three are anticipated to be completed from 2027 through 2028 and one is already completed. ​

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Doris Turner is encouraging park districts and municipalities in the 48th District to apply for the Illinois Department of Natural Resources’ Open Space Land Acquisition and Development grant.

“Local parks make our communities beautiful while providing space for families to enjoy the outdoors,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “We have made historic investments in our local park districts that will have a lasting effect on our neighborhoods.”

This year, $37.5 million in grant funding is available for qualifying applicants. IDNR will provide funding to cover 90% of eligible projects in underserved communities. Eligible projects can include development or renovation of picnic tables, playgrounds, fishing piers, sports courts/fields, park paths and more.

Communities whose parks have been damaged as a result of severe weather are encouraged to apply as well.

OSLAD is a matching state grant program that offers monetary assistance for the acquisition and/or development of land for public parks and outdoor recreation areas. Since its establishment in 1986, OSLAD has awarded over $675 million for local park projects across the state.

The application is open now and closes on Aug. 31. More information can be found here.

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.