Turner sworn in to continue advocating for Central Illinois

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Doris Turner was sworn in to office Wednesday for another term in the Illinois Senate.

“Living in Springfield my whole life, it is an honor to continue being your voice in the Capitol and serve as the voice for the people of the 48^th District,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “My top priority is to better the lives of people in Central Illinois and find solutions to the challenges we face.”

Turner has represented the 48^th District since her appointment in 2020 to fill the vacancy left by Andy Manar, who went on to become deputy governor. The district includes parts of Macon, Sangamon and Christian Counties.

Turner has led many legislative issues, such as addressing the teacher shortage, honoring Illinois’ fallen soldiers, and has been a strong advocate for the agriculture industry and education.

Turner strives to keep residents up to date with helpful information and resources, and encourages people to reach out to her office at SenatorDorisTurner.com/ContactUs or one of her district offices:

• Springfield: 217-854-4502
• Decatur: 217-706-5311

This week marks the start of the 103^rd General Assembly.

Turner-supported measure expands liquor delivery services

• SB1001

SPRINGFIELD – Liquor delivery services would be expanded under a measure supported by State Senator Doris Turner that passed the Senate Monday.

“Our bars and restaurants are the backbone of our communities and bring a uniqueness to our neighborhoods,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “We are continuously working to strengthen our local economies, and expanding liquor delivery services is a great way to do that.”

Senate Bill 1001 would eliminate state and local fees for liquor delivery throughout Illinois. Additionally, it brings parity for liquor delivery between home-rule and non-home rule municipalities to regulate liquor delivery.

The Turner-backed measure would also lower the licensing fees for wineries to $750 if renewed online and $900 for initial or non-online certification. Under a law passed in 2021, the fees were raised to $1,200 if renewed online and $1,500 for initial licenses and non-online.

“This expansion will benefit our bars, restaurants and wineries that bring tourists to our area and spur economic development across Central Illinois,” Turner said. “We are giving people the opportunity to support local from the comfort and safety of their own homes and stimulate our local economies – that’s a win-win for all.”

Senate Bill 1001 passed the Senate with bipartisan support.

Turner calls on governor to defend right to accessible, affordable healthcare

SPRINGFIELD – To alleviate obstacles to affordable and accessible healthcare in Central Illinois, State Senator Doris Turner is calling on the governor’s office to use its statutory authority to defend people’s right to healthcare.

About a year ago, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois cut Springfield Clinic from its network, devastating more than 55,000 Blue Cross customers, many who are still struggling to find new doctors or file continuity of care requests with Blue Cross.

“Residents in the Springfield area have the right to affordable and accessible healthcare,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “A year later, I am still hearing from families, local businesses and individuals that matters are getting worse. It appears like the Blue Cross providers directory is out of date and that they are a significantly inadequate provider network to meet the health needs of Central Illinois residents.”

Turner sent a letter to the governor’s office asking for them to find a remedy to take quick action regarding BCBSIL’s provider directory and failure to meet network adequacy regulations or prohibit the company from selling inadequate plans for the 2023 plan year.

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Turner secures $175,000 for Stonington, South Fork Township

SPRINGFIELD – The Village of Stonington and South Fork Township will receive vital funding, thanks to State Senator Doris Turner.

Turner (D-Springfield) fought to secure funding to support the municipalities as they make improvements to the Stonington Community Center and Kinkaid Senior Center to better serve residents in the area.

“These facilities serve as an opportunity to foster active living and encourage a sense of community,” said Turner. “I am grateful to work with Supervisor Dennis Foli and Mayor Bruce Dowdy to secure this funding and serve the residents of these areas.”

Turner made a request for this funding to be released swiftly. The Village of Stonington will receive $100,000 and South Fork Township will receive $75,000 both to make infrastructure improvements to these key facilities.

“The investments we are making in the Christian County area will help enhance and strengthen the lives of residents,” said Turner. “This is a small way for us to improve the quality of life and sense of community.”

Turner advocated for this project during capital infrastructure negotiations.