News

Originally published by Capitol Hill News on June 26, 2026.

A bill to make solar power more accessible to renters and others who face barriers to the alternative energy source stalled in the Illinois Senate, but it’s likely to return in the fall veto session because lawmakers like the idea of helping residents with their electric bills.

Plug-in solar, also known as balcony solar, allows people to install small solar panel systems that can be plugged into normal wall outlets for personal use. Instead of a rooftop, the panels could be set up on a balcony, in a yard, or on a porch or patio.

“I think lawmakers really see this as an opportunity to give folks a way to have more control over their power bills. I think also, frankly, people just think this is cool,” Kavi Chintam, campaign manager for Illinois at Vote Solar, told Capitol News Illinois.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Rachel Ventura’s measure to curb the growing influence of private equity and large institutional investors in Illinois’ housing market passed the Senate Monday.

“As working families struggle to find affordable homes and rising demand continues to drive up prices, we have a responsibility to preserve our existing housing supply for people, not large corporate investors,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “Unchecked investor activity is pricing Illinoisans out of their own neighborhoods, and we need clear guardrails to restore balance.”

JOLIET - To encourage students to keep up with their reading even while on summer break, State Senator Rachel Ventura is launching a Summer Book Club for children and students who live in the 43rd State Senate District, including those in Joliet Public School District 86 and Valley View Community Unit School District 365.

“Reading over the summer helps to prevent learning loss and prepare students to meet the upcoming school year fully prepared,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “My Summer Book Club encourages children to follow their own interests, enjoy the adventure, and receive a sweet treat!”

SPRINGFIELD – Continuing her work to promote child-first policies, State Senator Rachel Ventura advanced a bill that would give courts more flexibility in advocating for restorative justice programs for young people through the Senate Wednesday.

“This legislation reflects a child-first mindset, one that takes into account a child’s capacity for growth and need for support at critical stages in their development," said Ventura (D-Joliet). "It also moves us toward a restorative approach to justice, one that emphasizes real accountability, repair, and stronger outcomes for our communities.”