SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Rachel Ventura introduced a series of new criminal justice reform policies — including bringing medication-assisted treatment programs into Department of Corrections facilities and continuing to address Prisoner Review Board reforms including medical release hearing changes.

“Aligning our state’s incarceration facilities more closely with a rehabilitation-focused approach — while prioritizing health care and restorative justice over punishment — is key to reducing crime, recidivism and costs to the state,” said Ventura (D-Joliet).

SPRINGFIELD — To further economic development and public recreation opportunities in Will County, State Senator Rachel Ventura introduced two pieces of legislation aimed at exploring alternative uses for state-owned land.

“These initiatives are about responsible land use and economic growth,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “Exploring the potential for agri-food infrastructure could lead to job creation, improved food supply chains and innovative agricultural solutions for our region.”

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Rachel Ventura introduced two new measures to address medical fees and lower prescription drug costs, providing relief to Illinoisans’ health care costs.

“The cost of prescription drugs are on the verge of being raised significantly – leaving millions unsure how they will be able to afford life-saving medications. We cannot allow big pharmaceutical companies to drain people’s pockets when there are much cheaper alternatives,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “I also believe it is unfair to penalize individuals who have difficulties making and attending medical appointments with outrageous medical fees of services not rendered. My legislation puts people first in health.”

SPRINGFIELD – After leading historic dialogue on psilocybin treatments in Illinois last year, State Senator Rachel Ventura is continuing her work to bring forth the CURE Act – the Compassionate Use and Research of Entheogens Act – to help tackle treatment-resistant conditions, like PTSD, as well as research the safety and efficacy of psychedelic use.

“This bill aims to tackle the stigma surrounding plant-based medicine. Psilocybin would open new pathways in the brain to help pinpoint areas for healing. Integrated therapy-based sessions following its exposure would create real change for an individual who has exhausted other treatment methods,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “Last session, we had bipartisanship collaboration on this novel piece of legislation that would aid veterans and those suffering with mental illnesses, PTSD, substance abuse and more.”