SPRINGFIELD – Senator Rachel Ventura introduced the Deforestation-Free Illinois Act, to make Illinois the first state to ensure state purchases don’t contribute to deforestation, forest degradation, or human rights violations.

“The state has made a serious commitment to reducing its carbon footprint with CEJA. Now more than ever, we must align Illinois’ procurement policy to match those commitments and move toward a deforestation-free procurement policy,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “Preventing deforestation is one of the most cost-effective climate mitigation strategies – by aligning our state with the policies set in this legislation, our state can make bold improvements in protecting the climate, biodiversity and human rights.”

Senate Bill 2157 would make Illinois a leader in responsible sourcing, aligning with global efforts to protect forests, climate, and biodiversity.

SPRINGFIELD – In response to Governor JB Pritzker’s budget address today, State Senator Rachel Ventura (D-Joliet) issued the following statement:

“At a time of national uncertainty, Illinois must be a pillar of stability—protecting vital services and ensuring working families can build real wealth, not just scrape by. Our residents deserve to thrive, not merely survive.

"I am committed to securing funding for families and advancing a budget that truly supports the working class—those already burdened by skyrocketing costs. This includes strengthening the child tax credit we fought for last year, which families can now claim on their taxes. Additionally, the tax delinquency payment program is projected to generate $198 million this year, offering some much-needed relief.

SPRINGFIELD – A measure from State Senator Rachel Ventura ensuring that the odor of raw or burnt cannabis could not alone constitute a search of a motor vehicle, driver or passenger passed through the Senate Criminal Law Committee on Tuesday.

“A recent state Supreme Court ruling gave a conflicting directive 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 filed a new bill aimed at reforming the state's approach to child incarceration, advocating for policies that prioritize children’s needs while addressing the secondary consequences of criminalization.

"Too often, the justice system treats children as criminals first, rather than addressing their unique needs as young people who deserve support and guidance if there is hope to change the trajectory they are on," said Ventura (D- Joliet). "This bill will reshape our systems to prioritize rehabilitation, healing and prevention over punishment, while also ensuring accountability and safety. It’s a step toward justice for our children and communities."