SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Rachel Ventura introduced a measure in the Senate to ensure that the odor of raw or burnt cannabis could not alone constitute a search of a motor vehicle, driver, or passenger thus protecting every Illinoisan’s 4th Amendment rights.

“The Supreme Court gave a conflicting directive in its recent ruling between raw and burnt cannabis, shifting a huge burden to law enforcement to know the difference,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “This bill aims to clean up that court ruling by directing law enforcement to consider all factors - not just odor - in deciding if the law has been broken.”

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Rachel Ventura, a staunch advocate for humane criminal justice reform as well as improving diversity, transparency and equality in the state, has been appointed to serve as chair of the Senate Human Rights Committee for the 104th General Assembly.

“Throughout my career, I have remained steadfast in improving the lives of Illinoisans through initiatives in housing, mental health access, economic opportunities and environmental sustainability — all of which are integral to ensuring humans have access to a safe and healthy planet,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “It is an honor to be entrusted with chairing the Human Rights Committee. I am deeply committed to advancing policies that address systemic inequities, including those rooted in socioeconomic disparities, while upholding the dignity of every individual. Illinois serves as a beacon of hope in the Midwest, and I aim to enhance transparency and fairness for all in this new role.”

MINOOKA – Following the public open house regarding Canadian National’s proposed Chicago Logistic Hub Intermodal Facility located off Rt. 6 in Channon held in Minooka on Tuesday, State Senator Rachel Ventura raised concerns over the lack of public commentary permitted on the project and the environmental and economic issues that the project could bring to the area.

Hundreds of residents were in attendance as well as elected officials, trade unions, and local police, all trying to learn more. Some residents were outraged with the project.

“It’s extremely disappointing to me that Canadian National is bringing this massive intermodal facility without giving the opportunity for the public to comment nor are they listening to the concerns of the very residents this plan will affect directly,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “The area is already heavily impacted with increased truck traffic that causes accidents and unsafe driving conditions. I am vehemently opposed to this project as additional trucks on the road will add the ongoing problem of air pollution and many of these jobs are low wage jobs hurting our economy."

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Rachel Ventura was sworn in for her second term to represent Illinois’ 43rd Senate District on Wednesday.

“I am honored to continue my work in the Illinois Senate and to bring forward solutions for people in my community and across Illinois – not just the rich and powerful,” said Ventura (D-Joliet).

During her first term as a state senator, Ventura led efforts to address the climate crisis, reform criminal justice, protect renters, infrastructure investments, consumer protections and educational improvements.

She supported increasing the child tax credit, increasing the standard deduction to keep pace with inflation, freezing the gas tax and fought for investments in the district to help alleviate the financial impacts on residents and local governments.

“Working families need someone who will uphold the values we all share,” said Ventura. “I am proud of my track record on delivering for our community, and look forward to building on the progress we’ve made together. I know there is much more work that needs to happen, especially to shrink the wealth gap.”

Senator Ventura represents Illinois’ 43rd Senate District, which includes portions of Bolingbrook, Joliet, Lockport, Romeoville and surrounding communities.