News

Details: Friday, August 07, 2026 09:09 AM

JOLIET – The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity announced the recipients of the second round of the Regional Site Readiness program. The City of Lockport, located in State Senator Rachel Ventura’s district, will be receiving $119,600 for infrastructure assessment and topographic surveying to serve a 146-acre industrial site.

“The Regional Site Readiness program is an investment for future development – developments that are larger than just the land they sit on,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “This program invests in infrastructure and economic development that will leave a lasting impact for generations.”

Details: Monday, August 03, 2026 10:44 AM

Ventura HB4639 SignedGoverner 2026

SPRINGFIELD – Continuing her work to promote child-first policies, a bill sponsored by State Senator Rachel Ventura that would give courts more flexibility in advocating for restorative justice programs for young people was signed into law by the governor Friday.

“This law recognizes that children are still developing and deserve opportunities for growth, guidance, and rehabilitation,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). "By prioritizing a child-first mindset, we can promote accountability in ways that help repair harm, support healthier futures for young people, and strengthen our communities as a whole.”

Details: Saturday, August 01, 2026 02:19 PM

Originally published by The Edwardsville Intelligencer on Aug. 1, 2026.

In a republic, power is supposed to belong to the people.

Voters are supposed to decide who represents them. Candidates are supposed to make their case to the public. Elections are supposed to be contests of ideas, records, and trust.

In Illinois, election law is built around political parties before it is built around voters.

Details: Friday, July 31, 2026 02:11 PM

SB3422 Signed by Governer 2026

SPRINGFIELD - A measure led by State Senator Rachel Ventura providing grants to local governments for planting native trees and grasses in communities was signed into law by the governor Friday.

“Planting native greenery in local communities is a small step that can have a massive impact in combatting the catastrophic effects of climate change,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “Responsible stewardship of the environment starts right in our own backyards.”