JOLIET — State Senator Rachel Ventura released the following statement after the Illinois Supreme Court ruled that the smell of burnt cannabis alone no longer justifies a police search of a vehicle:

“Last year, I filed Senate Bill 125 to codify the appellate court decision affirmed by the Supreme Court into law. This particular ruling came after an individual in the Quad Cities area had their vehicle searched. However, this has been a long-standing issue across the state, including here in Will County, where an individual had their vehicle searched as well.

“I commend the court for coming to this decision today. Cannabis is legal in our state, and its use results in a pungent scent that can stick to clothes for extended periods of time. The odor of cannabis alone should not be used as a pretext for unwarranted traffic stops or searches, especially as people of color are unnecessarily pulled over far too often.

“The decision made today is a win for all Illinoisans and the protection of our 4^th Amendment rights.”

JOLIET — State Senator Rachel Ventura announced that over a dozen school districts across the area will receive over $5.6 million in additional funding to help address the financial challenges of recent years.

“The evidence-based funding formula has continually invested in classrooms across the state and has a proven track record of helping schools that need it most,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “Regardless of ZIP code or financial status, Illinois remains committed to providing the best high equality education for students.”

JOLIET – State Senator Rachel Ventura joined the Office of the State Fire Marshal in announcing applications are now being accepted for the Small Equipment Grant Program.

“Our first responders are essential to keeping our communities safe, and without the proper gear they need they could be putting themselves and their communities in danger,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “I highly encourage fire departments and nonprofit ambulance services in the 43^rd District to apply to this grant program so that they will be protected while on the job and be able to help better protect residents.”

JOLIET – Following  a federal judge’s ruling that the Illinois Department of Corrections must move most of the incarcerated individuals out of the Stateville Correctional Center by the end of September, State Senator Rachel Ventura (D-Joliet) released the following statement:

“After working intimately with system impacted individuals at Stateville, I recognize how important educational programs are at the facility. As the state transitions individuals out of Stateville, I am advocating for them to be placed in facilities that meet their needs, including those pertaining to education, accessibility and workforce and restorative justice programming.

“I encourage the Department of Corrections to work with all stakeholders, including AFSCME, universities, families and restorative justice programs to make sure the transition fulfills the needs of those impacted.

“We must keep stakeholders, families and employees in mind during this transition and be cognizant of their limitations and financial barriers when it comes to transporting these individuals and job relocation. I will continue to monitor the situation closely to ensure all parties are given full transparency.”