Turner champions measure to honor fallen Illinois heroes’ families

SPRINGFIELD – To show support to families of our state’s fallen heroes, State Senator Doris Turner (D-Springfield) is championing a measure to ensure their next of kin is presented an Illinois state flag by military personnel.   

“This bill shows our commitment to honoring those who’ve lost their lives while serving our great state,” Turner said. “I am hopeful we can continue to work together to express our condolences and gratitude for a life of public service.”

Under Turner’s measure, if an Illinois resident dies while on State Active Duty or Federal Active Duty, their next of kin would be presented the Illinois state flag by military personnel.

“I have a great respect and honor for our military,” Turner said. “My father and brother are both Army veterans, having served with honor and dignity. While I was lucky that they returned home safely, not every family gets that same joy.”

SB 3459 passed the Veterans Affairs Committee Tuesday and now heads to the full Senate for further consideration.

Turner optimistic about budget proposal

SPRINGFIELD – Following Governor JB Pritzker’s budget address, State Senator Doris Turner (D-Springfield) offered the following statement:

“Today’s budget proposal is a great first step in helping the millions of hardworking families that are still struggling to make ends meet due to financial struggles worsened by the pandemic.”

“It seems like almost every day we turn on the news, there is a new tragedy within the Department of Children and Family Services. I am pleased this proposed budget allocates millions of dollars to benefit staffing and caseload management.”

“Further, this budget prioritizes our law enforcement officers by setting forth money to help local municipalities purchase body cameras.”

“There are some encouraging aspects of the governor’s proposal, and I look forward to further discussions in the weeks to come to pass a budget that provides support for all Illinoisans. People around the 48th district are looking forward to a brighter tomorrow, and I intend to play a key role in delivering the support they rightfully deserve. ” 

Turner mourns the senseless death of Springfield DCFS employee

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Doris Turner (D-Springfield) released the following statement regarding the tragic loss of life of Deidra Silas, a Department of Children and Family Services’ employee. Silas was stabbed to death in Thayer Tuesday afternoon while performing a home visit.

“The senseless death of Deidre Silas, a DCFS investigator who dedicated her career to helping at-risk youth, is devastating. My heart goes out to all who love her during this difficult time.”

“The work is challenging, and can clearly be dangerous. One death in the line of service is too many. We must do a better job of protecting those who serve in positions like these.”

Turner: Illinois extends driver's license and ID card expiration dates

 SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Doris Turner (D-Springfield) is reminding Illinois drivers they will now have an additional three months to renew their licenses.

“With the predicted surge in COVID-19 cases around the state, it’s important to take as many steps to slow the spread of the disease as much as we can,” Turner said. “Many services have been made available online, so I encourage you to take full advantage of the new extension and the secretary of state’s website.”

Secretary of State Jesse White’s office announced Friday that expiration dates for driver’s licenses and ID cards has been extended an additional three months to March 31, 2022. However, the new expiration date does not apply to commercial driver’s licenses. The extension comes as secretary of state offices across Illinois continue to get caught up following COVID-19-related closures to their daily operations.

To cut down on long lines and wait times, people can visit of the secretary of state’s online services at ilsos.gov. These services include:

• Renewing a vehicle registration;
• Applying for a vehicle title and registration;
• Obtaining a duplicate driver’s license or ID card;
• Obtaining a driving record abstract;
• Renewing a standard driver’s license with the Safe Driver Renewal program.

Turner is also reminding residents the U.S. Department of Homeland Security has extended the federal REAL ID deadline to May 3, 2023. Current Illinois driver’s licenses or ID cards will continue to be accepted at airports, military bases and secure federal facilities.

For more information and to take advantage of online services, including license plate renewal, people can visit ilsos.gov.