SPRINGFIELD — Continuing her work to protect consumers, State Senator Rachel Ventura is leading a measure that would prevent retailers from requiring consumers to accept store credit instead of a refund.

“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 measure protects working families, increases transparency and helps ensure businesses treat consumers fairly.”

SPRINGFIELD - A measure sponsored by State Senator Rachel Ventura that would require companies to disclose when they’re using AI chatbots and not a human to talk with consumers passed the Senate Executive Committee Wednesday.

“We’ve all experienced it before. You call a company for help, and the next thing you know, you’re frustrated by the lack of answers – only to realize minutes later you’re talking to a chatbot rather than a real person,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “People deserve to know whether they are communicating with a human or an AI system from the very beginning of an interaction.”

SPRINGFIELD — A new measure introduced by State Senator Rachel Ventura to establish the Illinois Psilocybin Advisory Board to investigate and advise on best practices for psilocybin treatments to help tackle treatment-resistant conditions such as PTSD passed the Senate Thursday.

“I remain committed to passing the CURE Act in its entirety and providing real change for individuals who have exhausted other treatment methods,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “This bill is an important first step in that effort and will provide legislators with essential research on the safety and efficacy of psychedelic use in therapeutic treatments.”

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Rachel Ventura celebrated Illinois’ music history with a Senate resolution honoring legendary rock band REO Speedwagon for their enduring contributions to music, culture and the state as a whole.

Senate Resolution 502 was introduced at the request of the Illinois Rock and Roll Museum in Joliet, which formally presented the honor to members of REO Speedwagon during a special recognition event held in March.

“REO Speedwagon is a defining part of Illinois’ musical legacy,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “For decades, their music has brought people together, inspired generations of artists, and put our state on the map in the world of rock and roll. I’m proud to recognize their incredible achievements with this Senate resolution.”