SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Doris Turner supported a measure to bring awareness to the history of the Underground Railroad in Illinois, which was signed into law Friday.

“It’s time we bring to light our history that led us to where we are today,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “Illinois played a crucial role in freeing slaves and we need to recognize the pioneers who fought for the rights of African Americans, giving them the freedom and justice they deserved.”

The Turner-backed law creates the Underground Railroad Task Force for the purpose of developing a statewide plan to connect existing local projects and new projects to create a cohesive statewide history of the Underground Railroad in Illinois, while developing new educational and tourism opportunities.

The task force will identify where historical sites are located, connections they may have to one another, and will paint a picture to recognize the history of the Underground Railroad in Illinois. It will also introduce educational and tourism opportunities throughout the state.

“We have to be able to tell our story,” Turner said. “This was something I was proud to support. It will create opportunities for students to learn what happened right here in Illinois in the 1800s and be able to share our story to future generations for years to come.”

Senate Bill 1623 takes effect Jan. 1, 2024.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Doris Turner passed a measure that recognizes the impact of the opioid crisis on children and families across Illinois through the Senate on Thursday.

“The opioid crisis has taken thousands of Illinois residents’ lives,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “It’s time we shine a light on the impact it has left on children and families. We need to prioritize support programs that can bring real, valuable solutions to these problems.”

Senate Resolution 36 recognizes the impact of the opioid crisis on the children and families of Illinois and affirms the General Assembly's support for home-visiting and early intervention programs as essential components of the state’s multifaceted approach to combating the opioid crisis.

The Turner-led measure calls on the General Assembly to support early intervention and home-visiting programs with settlement funds from lawsuits against opioid manufacturers. The resolution calls for these programs to be further invested into and expanded.

Opioid addiction can lead to negative outcomes for children such as Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome and adverse childhood experiences, and can affect families by causing increased maternal mortality.

Senate Resolution 36 passed the Senate with bipartisan support.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Doris Turner passed a measure to honor James L. Easterly’s accomplishments and dedication to the state by designating an Illinois Department of Transportation building in his name.

“This is one way for me to honor Mr. Easterly’s mentorship and friendship to Illinois,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “He dedicated his career to public service and to build a better Illinois. I’m honored to carry this measure that honors a true leader for our state and the transportation industry.”

House Joint Resolution 22 designates the Illinois Department of Transportation’s District 6 Headquarters in Springfield as the "James L. Easterly Building." Easterly's accomplishments have made a lasting impression on IDOT and the state.

A registered professional engineer in Illinois, Texas and Missouri, Easterly began working for IDOT after high school and continued until his retirement in May 2003. During his time with IDOT, he served in a variety of capacities, including as resident engineer, statewide construction engineer, and district engineer in Springfield and Collinsville, and finished his career as IDOT Director of Highways. He left a lasting legacy of safety and improvements to the transportation system in Illinois that will stand the test of time and benefit future generations for years to come.

House Joint Resolution 22 passed the Senate with bipartisan support.

SPRINGFIELD – To promote community gardening, State Senator Doris Turner championed a measure that would provide incentives for affordable housing projects that incorporate urban and suburban gardening.

“Gardening can help households cut down on food costs,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “Providing affordable housing units an incentive to garden allows residents to have access to nutritional foods right outside their doors.”

House Bill 3892 would allow the Illinois Housing Development Authority to develop a program that provides incentives for affordable housing projects that incorporate urban and suburban gardening.

Turner’s measure would require IHDA to consult with the University of Illinois on the program, work with the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity to facilitate the distribution of produce from the garden, and provide all necessary tools for the garden.

“Spending time outside gardening can reduce stress and help with a person’s overall physical and mental health,” Turner said.

House Bill 3892 passed the Senate and now heads to the governor’s desk.