Ventura highlights conservation laws taking effect Jan. 1

SPRINGFIELD -- Two laws spearheaded by State Senator Rachel Ventura will improve nature conservation efforts in the new year by expanding grant funding for forestry projects and paving the way for the implementation of rewilding strategies by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.  

“These laws represent important steps forward in repairing the damage caused to the nature in our state by climate change and environmental destruction,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “With these new measures in place, we can expect to see real improvement in the health and stability of our local ecosystems.”

Read more …

Ventura law allowing pharmacists to dispense non-hormonal contraception options starts Jan. 1

• Healthcare

SPRINGFIELD – A new law sponsored by State Senator Rachel Ventura and State Representative Michelle Mussman that will expand the types of contraception pharmacists can dispense to include emergency contraception and non-hormonal options goes into effect Jan. 1.

“By increasing the types of contraceptives pharmacists are able to prescribe, including non-hormonal options, we are expanding health care accessibility that will allow every individual to make the best choice for their birth control,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “These medications have been shown to be safe, effective, and essential for people who do not respond well to hormonal birth control options.”

Read more …

Ventura law improving clinical psychologist licensure requirements starts Jan. 1

SPRINGFIELD – To streamline the licensing process for clinical psychologists in Illinois, State Senator Rachel Ventura partnered with State Representative Nabeela Syed on House Bill 3373, which goes into effect Jan. 1.

“New professionals are today entering into one of the toughest job markets in recent history,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “This law will allow students to complete the educational portion of required exams even if they face delays in securing a training residency.”

Read more …

Ventura leads charge to expand Illinois broadband access

SPRINGFIELD – Despite repeated promises from the federal government, high-speed internet access remains a distant goal for many communities — especially in rural Illinois, where service is often spotty, unreliable or altogether unavailable. In response to federal inaction and recent funding withdrawals, State Senator Rachel Ventura championed on a new law that will provide a strategic state-level response to a growing digital divide.

“Access to broadband has become critical for many aspects of daily life, especially in education. This law prioritizes anchor institutions to quickly improve our state’s broadband network in the most cost-effective way possible,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “By utilizing existing and nearby infrastructure, vulnerable communities can increase access to high-speed internet, allowing them better integration into statewide networks and resources.”

Read more …