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.”

Originally published on ABC New Channel 20 on Sept. 19, 2024

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WICS) — Anassociate professor in the School of Education at the University of Illinois Springfield, is partnering with Springfield Public Schools District 186 to integrate yoga and social-emotional learning (SEL) into the curriculum.

Jennifer Martinrecently led a project combining a memoir-writing group with SEL and yoga workshops at Douglas Alternative School.

This initiative involved ninth-grade students, who created their own memoirs and engaged in yoga, breathing techniques and SEL practices. Feedback indicated that students found the breathing exercises effective for managing stress and improving emotional well-being.

Martin is also starting a yoga club at Hazel Dell Elementary School, targeting fifth-grade students during the Boys and Girls Club after-school program.This program aims to introduce younger students to yoga and SEL practices to support their physical, emotional and mental development.

Martin’s project aligns with new Illinois legislation, effective Jan. 1, 2025, which requires 20 minutes of yoga or meditation in schools. This new law, championed by State Senator Rachel Ventura, emphasizes the role of these practices in supporting student health and learning.

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.”