News

JOLIET – Following the release of publicly available reports, State Senator Rachel Ventura has filed a resolution directing the Illinois Auditor General to conduct a performance audit of the Illinois Department of Corrections. This will include a review of the department’s master plan as well as its actions at the Joliet Treatment Center and the Joliet Inpatient Treatment Center.

“I am disturbed by the recent reports coming out of the Joliet Treatment Center regarding the unsafe living conditions and lack of emergency preparedness that have led to two deaths at the facility,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “Incidents like these are inexcusable and this resolution will force a much needed audit of the Illinois Department Corrections.”

Originally published by WBEZ Chicago on Nov. 2, 2026. 

Over the weekend we turned our clocks back to standard time. It means brighter mornings and earlier sunsets. How do you feel about turning the clock back? Do you think we should stick with permanent daylight saving?

A sleep expert tells Say More what that would mean for our overall health, and two state senators from Illinois lay out their competing legislative proposals to change the time in Illinois.

GUESTS: James Herdegen, pulmonologist, sleep medicine specialist, Section and Medical Director, Rush Sleep Center
State Sen. Rachel Ventura, Democrat who represents the 43rd District
State Sen. Jil Tracy, Republican who represents the 50th District

JOLIET – State Senator Rachel Ventura announced that Hyundai Translead is expanding its planned investment in Will County – creating a total of 3,750 new full-time jobs and investing $600 million. The State is also investing in a new Manufacturing Training Academy (MTA) at Joliet Junior College (JJC).  

“Joliet is the heartbeat of industry in Will County and the state of Illinois, and this new Hyundai Translead facility will bring jobs and bolster economic growth in the 43rd District and surrounding communities,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “This investment proves we are a premier manufacturing destination and demonstrates a commitment to fostering relationships that promote economic development in our communities.”

Originally published by Investigate Midwest on Oct. 20, 2026

After a temporary boost in state funding, the state’s 97 soil and water conservation districts are back to operating on tighter budgets, leaving employees searching for other ways to help farmers protect their land.