Illinois State Senator Rachel Ventura
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Ventura issues statement on Kashmir attack

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Monday, April 28, 2025 07:51 PM

StateSenatorVentura

JOLIET – Following the deadly attack in the mountainous destination of Pahalgam in Kashmir, State Senator Rachel Ventura issued the following statement:

“Residents across my district are mourning the loss of loved ones after the massacre of Hindu tourists in Kashmir.

“I strongly condemn any acts of violence and terrorism, and extend my sincerest condolences to all communities, families and their loved ones affected by this attack.

“In the coming days and weeks I hope for peace in the region as they recover.”

Ventura announces over $39,000 in library grants coming to local school districts

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Wednesday, April 23, 2025 12:01 AM

 SenVentura

JOLIET – State Senator Rachel Ventura announced 11 school districts in the greater Joliet area have received nearly $40,000 to provide resources to libraries through books, e-books, audiobooks, periodicals, multilingual materials, technology and programs.

“Quality education is a fundamental right, and providing our students with high-quality educational resources and materials is a priority of our state,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “I look forward to seeing how these funds will be used in our area and the positive educational development it will bring to our students.”

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Ventura helps secure $2.4 million in job training funding for local organizations

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Tuesday, April 15, 2025 06:53 PM

SenatorVentura

JOLIET – State Senator Rachel Ventura secured $2.4 million to help local organizations and universities build pathways to good-paying jobs in the construction and building trades in Will and DuPage counties.

“Investing in training the next generation of skilled workers not only boosts productively but empowers individuals with economic mobility and stability,” said Ventura (D-Joliet).  “Our area is in need of skilled workers who provide these invaluable in-demand skills, and I look forward to seeing greater accessibility for pre-apprenticeship programs in District 43 with these funds.”

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Ventura: Cannabis bill provides clarity for law enforcement

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Monday, April 14, 2025 10:30 PM

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SPRINGFIELD – Following the Senate passage of Senate Bill 42, State Senator Rachel Ventura made clarifying remarks on the bill, explaining its intent and background.

The legislation makes clear that the smell of raw or burnt cannabis alone cannot justify a search of a vehicle, driver, or passenger. The goal is to ensure consistent law enforcement practices in situations involving cannabis. While the odor may still be noted, it cannot be the sole reason for a stop or search.

“I want to ensure there is no misunderstanding about the core intent of this bill — to clarify existing statute and address ambiguities in the law that currently create challenges for law enforcement,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “Dispensary workers and Illinoisans who legally use cannabis should not be penalized and targeted on smell alone. If a driver is exhibiting erratic behavior in addition to the scent of cannabis, then law enforcement may conduct a search. This bill not only protects people’s Fourth Amendment rights from unreasonable search and seizure, but also addresses due process.”

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More Articles …

  1. Parental Alienation Awareness Day recognized in Illinois thanks to Ventura
  2. Senate passes Ventura measure removing cannabis odor as probable cause to search a vehicle
  3. Ventura’s proposed K-9 drug detection pilot program sparks discussion in committee
  4. Ventura measure to help fund clean energy projects in Illinois
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Office Info

District Office:
221 Springfield Ave., Unit 3
Joliet, IL 60435
(331) 290-0443
(815) 240-9057 [TEXT]

Springfield Office:
119B Capitol Building
Springfield, IL 62706
(217) 782-8800

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