Senator Turner celebrates Black Farmers Week

• Agriculture

SPRINGFIELD – Joined in the Capitol by Black farmers, State Senator Doris Turner celebrated Black Farmers Week taking pride in advocating for diverse agriculture across the state.

“I am proud to stand with the Black farmers of Illinois,” says Turner (D-Springfield). “As chair of the Senate Agriculture Committee, I want to be a voice for all members of our agriculture community.”

This week commemorates the first Black Farmers Week in the state. Black Farmers Week was established this year by House Representative Sonya Harper with the support of Senator Turner to encourage the people of Illinois and all representatives in government to learn about the history of Black farming communities and the contributions made by African Americans in the agriculture field.

Black farmers in America have had a long struggle to own land and operate independently in the agriculture industry due to economic and social barriers. Movements in Illinois and across the country have fought to rectify the historic discrimination against Black farmers and encourage diverse interest in farming to innovate the industry.

“Black farmers can play leading roles in creating regional networks of jobs, food and agriculture,” Turner said. “To diversify and expand the agriculture industry here in Illinois, we have to create opportunities for disadvantaged communities to do so.”

Turner advances measure to remove duplicate driving test for motorcyclists

• HB2582

SPRINGFIELD – To remove barriers for motorcyclists, State Senator Doris Turner spearheaded a measure through the Senate Transportation Committee that would remove the requirement to complete a driver’s test with the Secretary of State.

“Young motorcyclists have to take repetitive, unnecessary tests to get their license,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “Removing this requirement is an easy fix to speed up the process.”

House Bill 2582 would remove the requirement for a motorcyclist under the age of 18 to complete a motorcycle driver's examination with the Secretary of State. Under current law, 16 to 17 year old motorcyclists are required to complete a Cycle Driver Testing Course provided by the Illinois Department of Transportation and an additional examination by the Secretary of State.

“This initiative doesn’t lessen requirements for these drivers, but eases the process by removing a duplicate test,” Turner said. “This is one step we can take to get rid of a redundant process.”

House Bill 2582 passed the Senate Transportation Committee and heads to the full Senate for further consideration.

Turner secures nearly $2 million for Springfield, Decatur tourism industry

SPRINGFIELD – Nearly $2 million is coming to Springfield and Decatur, thanks to funding secured by State Senator Doris Turner to support local festivals and attractions and drive tourism in the 48^th District.

“Central Illinois 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. I’m excited to continue highlighting the great things Springfield and Decatur have to offer and show the world it’s a great place to be!”

Through the second round of the Tourism Attractions and Festivals Grant Program, a total of $22.5 million was awarded to localities, organizations and businesses to fund 89 tourism-related improvements, events and activities across Illinois. The City of Springfield is set to receive nearly $500,000 to improve the North Mansion Block Plaza and the Springfield Park District received $370,000 to replace Washington Park’s Botanical Garden Conservatory Dome and make other upgrades.

Additionally, Turner helped secure $65,000 for the Hoogland Center for the Arts to support a new marquee with electronic message boards. The Route History, Inc. was awarded $500,000 to construct the Imagine Route 66 History building. The Decatur Park District is set to receive $500,000 to improve the Devon G. Amphitheater.

A full list of recipients can be found here.

Turner hosts Easter ham giveaway

SPRINGFIELD – To give back to the community, State Senator Doris Turner is partnering with Meridian and HealthChoice Illinois to host an Easter ham giveaway on Saturday, April 8 in Springfield.

“As a state senator and resident of Springfield, it’s important to me to continue giving back to our community throughout the year, not only during the holidays,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “I’m excited to join health organizations to provide a meal and resources for residents to enjoy and take advantage of.”

Turner will be giving away 150 hams, as well as health and wellness resources provided by Meridian and HealthChoice.

The event will be held at the Greater All Nation Tabernacle Church located at 100 South 19^th Street in Springfield on April 8 from 1-3 p.m. or while supplies last.

Residents with questions can call Turner’s Springfield office at 217-782-0228.