SPRINGFIELD – Liquor delivery services would be expanded under a measure supported by State Senator Doris Turner that passed the Senate Monday.

“Our bars and restaurants are the backbone of our communities and bring a uniqueness to our neighborhoods,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “We are continuously working to strengthen our local economies, and expanding liquor delivery services is a great way to do that.”

Senate Bill 1001 would eliminate state and local fees for liquor delivery throughout Illinois. Additionally, it brings parity for liquor delivery between home-rule and non-home rule municipalities to regulate liquor delivery.

The Turner-backed measure would also lower the licensing fees for wineries to $750 if renewed online and $900 for initial or non-online certification. Under a law passed in 2021, the fees were raised to $1,200 if renewed online and $1,500 for initial licenses and non-online.

“This expansion will benefit our bars, restaurants and wineries that bring tourists to our area and spur economic development across Central Illinois,” Turner said. “We are giving people the opportunity to support local from the comfort and safety of their own homes and stimulate our local economies – that’s a win-win for all.”

Senate Bill 1001 passed the Senate with bipartisan support.

SPRINGFIELD – To alleviate obstacles to affordable and accessible healthcare in Central Illinois, State Senator Doris Turner is calling on the governor’s office to use its statutory authority to defend people’s right to healthcare.

About a year ago, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois cut Springfield Clinic from its network, devastating more than 55,000 Blue Cross customers, many who are still struggling to find new doctors or file continuity of care requests with Blue Cross.

“Residents in the Springfield area have the right to affordable and accessible healthcare,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “A year later, I am still hearing from families, local businesses and individuals that matters are getting worse. It appears like the Blue Cross providers directory is out of date and that they are a significantly inadequate provider network to meet the health needs of Central Illinois residents.”

Turner sent a letter to the governor’s office asking for them to find a remedy to take quick action regarding BCBSIL’s provider directory and failure to meet network adequacy regulations or prohibit the company from selling inadequate plans for the 2023 plan year.

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SPRINGFIELD – The Village of Stonington and South Fork Township will receive vital funding, thanks to State Senator Doris Turner.

Turner (D-Springfield) fought to secure funding to support the municipalities as they make improvements to the Stonington Community Center and Kinkaid Senior Center to better serve residents in the area.

“These facilities serve as an opportunity to foster active living and encourage a sense of community,” said Turner. “I am grateful to work with Supervisor Dennis Foli and Mayor Bruce Dowdy to secure this funding and serve the residents of these areas.”

Turner made a request for this funding to be released swiftly. The Village of Stonington will receive $100,000 and South Fork Township will receive $75,000 both to make infrastructure improvements to these key facilities.

“The investments we are making in the Christian County area will help enhance and strengthen the lives of residents,” said Turner. “This is a small way for us to improve the quality of life and sense of community.”

Turner advocated for this project during capital infrastructure negotiations.

SPRINGFIELD – During National Diabetes Month, State Senator Doris Turner is urging residents to take their health into their own hands by educating themselves and others on detection and available resources to help combat the disease.

According to the American Diabetes Association, in Illinois more than 1.3 million people have diabetes, which is 12.8% of the population.

“There is a significant chance that you have a loved one, friend or neighbor that has been diagnosed with diabetes,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “During National Diabetes Month, we must raise awareness and educate ourselves on available treatment, resources and possible dangers of this condition.”

According to the Mayo Clinic, changing an individual’s lifestyle can be a major step in preventing diabetes. Some tips include being more physically active, eating healthy plant foods and fats such as olive oil, nuts and seeds, making healthier choices and seeing your doctor regularly.

“Working with your health care professionals will provide you the personal care you may need to improve your health,” said Turner. “Take some time to bring attention to diabetes and advocate for a cure.”

To learn more about National Diabetes Month and the condition, visit https://diabetes.org/.