Welcome to Illinois State Senator Doris Turner's Legislative Website

Turner responds to Aetna, BJC Healthcare agreement

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Doris Turner (D-Springfield) released the following statement in response to Aetna and provider groups BJC Healthcare and WashU Medicine finalizing an agreement that preserves coverage for members enrolled in the Illinois Total Retiree Advantage Illinois plan:

“As a fierce champion for healthcare, I am proud to see an agreement made that provides relief for the residents who worked hard for reliable health insurance. Now, Central Illinois retirees can rest assured that they will retain access to quality healthcare.

“I commend Aetna, BJC Healthcare and WashU Medicine for coming together to do what’s right for retirees. I will continue monitoring the situation to ensure healthcare for Central Illinois retirees is protected.”

Turner to host annual turkey giveaway in Springfield

SPRINGFIELD – To kick off the giving season, State Senator Doris Turner has teamed up with Meridian to host a turkey giveaway ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday.

“Events like these truly showcase the spirit of the holiday season,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “This is a great opportunity for us to give back to our communities and ensure everyone can have a warm meal, especially for those who need it most.”

The free giveaway will take place on Friday, Nov. 13 at the Greater All Nation Tabernacle Church of God in Christ, located at 1000 S. 19th St. in Springfield from 10 a.m. to noon. Turkeys will be available while supplies last. One turkey will be provided per household and an ID will be required to differentiate households per car.

For more information, call Turner’s office at 217-670-1828.

Turner, Sangamon County bring additional community resources to updated public health building

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Doris Turner joined Sangamon County officials for a groundbreaking on Tuesday recognizing the ongoing $16.2 million renovation of the Sangamon County Department of Public Health building.

“My advocacy began working with young mothers in the community, long before I was an elected official,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “While on the county board, I worked to find a facility that could be a central location for residents to get all the resources they need.”

Construction is underway on the project, which will modernize the existing facility and create a one-stop shop for a variety of community services. Once completed, the building will bring together public health services, community resources, employment services, township resources, veterans assistance and other programs that serve Sangamon County residents.

The $16.2 million project is moving forward without any new debt or tax increases. Funding for the renovation also includes a $2.5 million grant secured by Turner.

“Investing in facilities that provide essential services means investing in the people who depend on them,” said Turner. “I am proud to support this project and secure state funding that will improve access to public health and community services for Sangamon County residents.”

The renovation will allow Sangamon County to continue providing public health services at the location while preparing the building to accommodate additional community services and programs.

Over $615,000 to boost Central Illinois tourism thanks to Turner

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Doris Turner secured over $615,000 to support projects along Route 66, market local destinations and attractions, and promote Illinois internationally.

“Springfield has a number of attractions that bring visitors here from across the country,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “Continuing to make strong investments to drive the tourism industry helps boost our local economies. Central Illinois has so much to offer, and investments like these show the world it’s a great place to be.”

Through the International Tourism Grant Program, Springfield received nearly $160,000 to be used for tradeshows and sales missions, memberships, marketing campaigns, and digital and print media. Grant funding will also be used to help evolve the Springfield's History Comes Alive program into a multi-seasonal program, offering curated experiences in spring and fall in addition to the current summer program. Funds will also be used for print, media advertising and FAM tours in cooperation with the Illinois Office of Tourism.

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