Ventura releases statement on Secretary Noem visit to Springfield: Hate has no home here

SPRINGFIELD — Following the visit from Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, many Illinois lawmakers and community advocates gathered to say, “Go Home Noem.”

Ventura stood in solidarity with Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, Senate President Don Harmon, House Speaker Chris Welch, and dozens of lawmakers who delivered remarks at the rally held outside the Capitol.

Attorney General Kwame Raoul and Governor JB Pritzker have filed lawsuits to fight against the federal administration’s attacks on human rights — a fight Ventura has vowed to carry forward.

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Ventura measure ensures continued health insurance coverage for ongoing treatments

SPRINGFIELD – Following the House passage of House Bill 3796 from State Representative Hoan Huynh, State Senator Rachel Ventura carried the legislation through the Senate Insurance Committee on Tuesday, seeking to protect Illinoisans from out-of-pocket charges for ongoing treatments if the appointment was scheduled before their provider was removed from the insurance network.

“As a former actuarial analyst, I saw firsthand how insurance companies prioritized profits over health care — that being the main reason I left the industry. When a doctor has been removed from a network, patients need time to transition,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “This legislation provides time for a transition of care for those currently undergoing treatments with scheduled appointments. It's one small change that can bring a bit of peace of mind to those currently undergoing changes in their medical journey.”

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Ventura child incarceration task force bill advances in House, marking major step toward restorative justice reform for minors

SPRINGFIELD – Through efforts from State Senator Rachel Ventura and State Representative Hoan Huynh, a Child First Reform Task Force to review and recommend reforms to the juvenile justice system could soon be established under Senate Bill 2156. The task force would also investigate training for courts and law enforcement on child-first directives and integrating restorative practices.

“This measure is more than reforming systems — it’s about redefining how we see and support our children. Regardless of their background, every child deserves the resources and opportunities to grow into a healthy, productive adult,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “By investing in community-based alternatives to juvenile detention, we can create real, positive change that create better paths forward.”

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Statewide broadband access expanded under proposed Ventura measure

SPRINGFIELD – According to Pew Research Center, nearly a quarter of rural Americans say access to high-speed internet is a major problem in their local community. To increase high-speed internet access and expand broadband services across the state, particularly in underserved areas, State Senator Rachel

Ventura discussed the importance of Senate Bill 43 during a subject matter hearing in the Senate Energy and Public Utilities Committee on Friday.

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