Welcome to Senator Rachel Ventura's Legislative Website

Ventura legislation on juvenile restorative justice programs signed into law

• Criminal Justice
• Bill Signing
• HB4639
• Juvenile Justice
• Restorative Justice

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.”

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Ventura-led grant program for planting native greenery signed into law

• Bill Signing
• SB 3422
• Enviroment

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.”

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Ventura celebrates Disability Pride Month

• Disability Pride Month

JOLIET – July is Disability Pride Month, and State Senator Rachel Ventura is celebrating the recent milestones supporting accessibility and inclusion for Illinoisans with disabilities.

“Disability Pride Month is a chance for us celebrate and promote inclusivity of everyone in our community,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “Alongside my colleagues, we have made great strides in the protection and support of the disability community and I will continue to advocate for all members of our community, no matter their ability. We are all unique, and there is nothing that should hold us back.”

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Ventura leads law requiring retailers to provide cash or credit refunds for eligible returns

SPRINGFIELD — Continuing her work to protect consumers, a measure sponsored by State Senator Rachel Ventura that would prevent retailers from requiring consumers to accept store credit instead of a refund was signed into law Friday.

“Illinois consumers shouldn’t be forced into store credit when they return an unused product,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “If a retailer accepts a return, customers deserve the option to receive their money back. This law protects working families, increases transparency and helps ensure businesses treat consumers fairly.”

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