SPRINGFIELD – Under a newly proposed bill by State Senator Rachel Ventura, the Illinois Century Network (ICN) would be authorized to expand broadband services, bringing high-speed internet directly to homes and businesses throughout the state, particularly in underserved areas.

“High-speed internet is at the forefront of all parts of our lives – from work, to school and everything in between,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “By expanding public access to broadband services, we would not only empower students through technology but also make daily life easier.”

SPRINGFIELD – Following the water rate hikes that affected Bolingbrook and the surrounding area, State Senator Rachel Ventura introduced a measure that would allow municipalities to buy back their private water lines through a ballot referendum. The measure is being supported in the house by Representative Dagmara Avelar.

“Water is essential to all life — I believe water should never be privatized for this reason. We cannot allow profits to be put over people,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “I will continue to work with my colleagues to protect access to clean, affordable drinking water, as well as advocate to reform water policies that have continually hurt consumers.”

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Rachel Ventura introduced a measure in the Senate to ensure that the odor of raw or burnt cannabis could not alone constitute a search of a motor vehicle, driver, or passenger thus protecting every Illinoisan’s 4th Amendment rights.

“The Supreme Court gave a conflicting directive in its recent ruling between raw and burnt cannabis, shifting a huge burden to law enforcement to know the difference,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “This bill aims to clean up that court ruling by directing law enforcement to consider all factors - not just odor - in deciding if the law has been broken.”

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Rachel Ventura, a staunch advocate for humane criminal justice reform as well as improving diversity, transparency and equality in the state, has been appointed to serve as chair of the Senate Human Rights Committee for the 104th General Assembly.

“Throughout my career, I have remained steadfast in improving the lives of Illinoisans through initiatives in housing, mental health access, economic opportunities and environmental sustainability — all of which are integral to ensuring humans have access to a safe and healthy planet,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “It is an honor to be entrusted with chairing the Human Rights Committee. I am deeply committed to advancing policies that address systemic inequities, including those rooted in socioeconomic disparities, while upholding the dignity of every individual. Illinois serves as a beacon of hope in the Midwest, and I aim to enhance transparency and fairness for all in this new role.”