DECATUR – State Senator Doris Turner joined state and local officials and leaders at a press conference Wednesday to break ground on TCCI’s new Electric Vehicle Innovation Hub in Decatur.

“By investing in TCCI’s Innovation Hub, we are investing in our community, boosting our local economy and bringing jobs to Decatur,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “Central Illinois will be a leader in the industry by expanding EV manufacturing and working with Richland Community College to prepare students for the workforce. This is a huge win for our community.”

Over $21 million was invested to build the first-of-its kind Climatic Center for Innovation and Research and the EV + Energy Workforce Training Academy through the Reimagining Energy and Vehicles in Illinois incentive package that supports the manufacturing facility expansion.

TCCI’s state-of-the-art electric compressor line located in Decatur will produce the largest range of capacity and voltage of any compressor manufacturer in the EV automotive market. By manufacturing electric compressors locally, TCCI is supporting the growth of electrification while creating high-wage, skilled jobs that fuel economic development in the local community.

The EV + Energy Workforce Training Academy will develop a skilled workforce by preparing students to join the industry. Through the program, Richland Community College will have three classrooms located within the TCCI manufacturing facility for an immersive hands-on learning experience.

“The EV Innovation Hub will be a catalyst for economic development for Central Illinois and the state of Illinois,” said City of Decatur Mayor Julie Moore Wolfe. “This tremendous example of collaboration between public and private partners positions the state as a leader in one of the most exciting growth industries, boosting our local economy, creating jobs, and ensuring all generations are prepared for in-demand careers.”

Production is set to begin by the end of 2024, making it one of the first such production facilities in the country.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Doris Turner is urging agencies across the 48^th District to apply for the Open Space Land Acquisition and Development grant program before the Aug. 31 deadline.

“Our parks and wildlife conservation projects are essential for residents to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Central Illinois,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “We’ve seen remarkable enhancements through the OSLAD program that leave residents proud of all that their communities have to offer.”

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources will be accepting applications for Open Space Land Acquisition and Development, or OSLAD, grants through Aug. 31.

The program offers funding assistance to local governmental agencies for acquisition and/or development of land for public parks and outdoor recreation areas. A total of $56 million is available for this round of OSLAD grants. In addition, IDNR will once again provide funding to cover 100% of eligible projects located in economically distressed communities.

Applications are being accepted through Aug. 31 and should be submitted to IDNR. For more information on the OSLAD program, visit IDNR’s website.

SPRINGFIELD – Motorcycles can now be equipped with forward facing turn signals and driving lights under a measure spearheaded by State Senator Doris Turner that was signed into law Friday.

“Drivers need to be aware of what’s going on around them,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “Motorcyclists aren’t always easy to see on the road so we need to make sure they have all the tools they need to be safe and visible.”

The new law 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.

Turner’s law seeks to provide clarity regarding new standard lighting on the front of motorcycles by increasing the visibility of a motorcycle and providing a clear indication of what the motorcycle is doing, similar to a vehicle.

“This is a win for all drivers,” said Turner. “Now, motorcyclists can have the lights and indicators they need to show others on the road where they are.”

Senate Bill 896 takes effect Jan. 1, 2024.

SPRINGFIELD – School buses can now have two extended stop arms under a new law championed by State Senator Doris Turner.

“We have to make sure students are safe while riding school buses,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “Drivers aren’t taking school bus stop signs seriously. Giving school buses the ability to have an additional arm will protect our students and stop reckless drivers from putting kids in danger.”

Turner’s law allows a school bus to be equipped with a maximum of two stop arms that partially obstruct the roadway. The extensions are required to be on the driver's side of the school bus and contain a system of flashing red lights.  

The new law comes in response to school officials across Illinois having seen an increase of instances where people don’t properly stop for a school bus, putting the lives of kids at risk. According to a survey conducted by the National Association of State Directors of Pupil Transportation Services, 79,959 school bus drivers from around the country reported that 51,593 vehicles had illegally passed their buses on a single day during the 2021-2022 school year.

“Too often, the safety of our students is placed in jeopardy by hurried or distracted drivers,” said Tip Reedy, Superintendent of Williamsville School District. “While we can hire great bus drivers and teach children to look both ways, we can’t control the actions a motorist. We value and appreciate the efforts of Senator Turner and other lawmakers who are taking steps to prevent the occurrence of unsafe and illegal passing of stopped school buses before tragedy occurs.”

Senate Bill 2340 was signed into law Friday.