SPRINGFIELD – To address ongoing efforts in mitigating the climate crisis, State Senator Rachel Ventura and State Representative Nabeela Syed spearheaded legislation to support green infrastructure loans for municipalities and counties, which passed the House Revenue and Finance Committee on Thursday.

“The costliness and unpredictability of abnormally large and powerful storms in the recent years due to the climate crisis has sent a clear signal for the state and local government to invest in climate resilience projects to protect Illinoisans from future disasters,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “Meeting our state's clean energy goals and tackling the climate crisis requires real investment in our communities. That’s why expanding low-cost financial options for local governments is critical to accelerating the transition to clean energy.”

SPRINGFIELD — Following the visit from Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, many Illinois lawmakers and community advocates gathered to say, “Go Home Noem.”

Ventura stood in solidarity with Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, Senate President Don Harmon, House Speaker Chris Welch, and dozens of lawmakers who delivered remarks at the rally held outside the Capitol.

Attorney General Kwame Raoul and Governor JB Pritzker have filed lawsuits to fight against the federal administration’s attacks on human rights — a fight Ventura has vowed to carry forward.

SPRINGFIELD – Following the House passage of House Bill 3796 from State Representative Hoan Huynh, State Senator Rachel Ventura carried the legislation through the Senate Insurance Committee on Tuesday, seeking to protect Illinoisans from out-of-pocket charges for ongoing treatments if the appointment was scheduled before their provider was removed from the insurance network.

“As a former actuarial analyst, I saw firsthand how insurance companies prioritized profits over health care — that being the main reason I left the industry. When a doctor has been removed from a network, patients need time to transition,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “This legislation provides time for a transition of care for those currently undergoing treatments with scheduled appointments. It's one small change that can bring a bit of peace of mind to those currently undergoing changes in their medical journey.”

SPRINGFIELD – Through efforts from State Senator Rachel Ventura and State Representative Hoan Huynh, a Child First Reform Task Force to review and recommend reforms to the juvenile justice system could soon be established under Senate Bill 2156. The task force would also investigate training for courts and law enforcement on child-first directives and integrating restorative practices.

“This measure is more than reforming systems — it’s about redefining how we see and support our children. Regardless of their background, every child deserves the resources and opportunities to grow into a healthy, productive adult,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “By investing in community-based alternatives to juvenile detention, we can create real, positive change that create better paths forward.”