JOLIET – State Senator Rachel Ventura announced today that her advocacy efforts have led to the successful awarding of $10.6 million in grants to fund improvements to the DuPage River Greenway Trail, Renwick Road Multi-Use Path and Romeoville Route 53 corridor. The grants were awarded under the Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program, administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation.

“Infrastructure that is used daily by the public needs to be maintained and updated so we can continue to rely on it,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “These dollars will provide the critical resources needed to make our community’s trails, roads and paths safer and more accessible for all.”

SPRINGFIELD – Following the House passage of House Bill 3850, State Senator Rachel Ventura worked alongside State Representative Hoan Huynh to pass the legislation through the Senate, adding simulation training as an approved form of continuing education for licensed health care professionals.

“As new and improved technologies continue to shape the medical field, simulation training offers an untapped opportunity to provide continuing education to medical students,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “Allowing this type of training expands cutting-edge educational resources.”

SPRINGFIELD – To streamline the licensing process for clinical psychologists in Illinois, State Senator Rachel Ventura partnered with State Representative Nabeela Syed to advance House Bill 3373, which passed the Senate on Thursday.

“Life is unpredictable, and the job market can be challenging,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “This bill allows students to complete the educational portion of required exams even if they face delays in securing a training residency.”

SPRINGFIELD – In a continued effort to expand access to health care while protecting affordability, State Senator Rachel Ventura and State Representative Hoan Huynh passed House Bill 1577 through the Senate on Thursday.

The legislation, which clarifies university participation in Illinois’ dependent coverage law, ensures student health insurance plans remain affordable and sustainable for those who rely on them most.

“Expanding health care access must go hand in hand with protecting affordability,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “This legislation supports the intent of the original law while making sure we don't unintentionally burden students with higher premiums. We’re committed to building a more inclusive health care system — one that meets people where they are, including our students.”