JOLIET — State Senator Rachel Ventura is encouraging residents to attend a public hearing hosted by the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) regarding Nicor Gas’ proposed $308.6 million rate increase. The hearing will take place on Monday, June 9, from 7-9:30 p.m. at the Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park Indoor Theatre, 201 W. Jefferson St., Joliet.

“This proposed rate increase would impact thousands of families across our region,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “It’s important that residents have a chance to make their voices heard before any decision is made.”

SPRINGFIELD – To promote race amity and highlight the importance of interracial friendships, State Senator Rachel Ventura sponsored a resolution declaring June 8, 2025 as Race Amity Day in Illinois.

“Race Amity Day encourages people to come together and celebrate the diversity within our communities,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “In times where hate and violence far too often persist, this resolution calls attention to the interracial friendships that make our communities stronger.”

SPRINGFIELD – Under a measure introduced by State Senator Rachel Ventura, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources would be tasked with expanding grant assistance to enhance local forestry programs and increase tree canopies in underserved and disadvantaged areas.

“In times where global temperatures are increasing and forests are shrinking, we should focus efforts on improving existing forest ecosystems and making them healthier,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “Expanding grant funding support for projects related to urban and community forestry is crucial to mitigating the impacts of the climate crisis.”

JOLIET – To emphasize the importance of learning throughout the summer, State Senator Rachel Ventura is hosting a Summer Book Club to encourage students to read and continue their studies during the summer vacation.

“Reading over the summer is a great way to keep kids actively learning. Developing a love of reading at a young age is key to a child's development,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “I encourage students of all ages to take advantage of this program to make reading a habit and be rewarded for it.”

The Summer Book Club requires students to read eight books of their choice during the summer break, record the names of the books on a form, and return the form to Ventura’s Joliet office by Aug. 15. Every child who completes the Summer Book Club will receive a gift card for a frozen treat from a local ice cream shop and a certificate from Senator Ventura.