Turner announces funding opportunity for fire departments

SPRINGFIELD – Applications are now being accepted for the Small Equipment Grant Program benefiting fire departments and ambulance services, State Senator Doris Turner announced.

“Our fire departments are essential to our community, protecting residents every day,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “This grant program ensures they have the essential tools and resources to effectively do their jobs. I encourage local fire departments to apply for the funding.”

The Small Equipment Grant Program assists fire departments and not-for-profit ambulance services in Illinois, particularly those experiencing difficulty in generating the necessary revenue for small equipment. The grants allow eligible applicants the opportunity to purchase small tools and equipment they may otherwise not be able to afford.

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University, community college employees protected under Turner law

SPRINGFIELD – University and community college employees will receive their pay and benefits if a campus is closed due to a winter weather emergency, thanks to a new law sponsored by State Senator Doris Turner.

“All employees within our higher education institutions play a vital role in the normal, day-to-day operations on campus,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “No one should go unpaid without notice. That’s why I led this initiative to ensure workers receive the pay and benefits they deserve.”

Senate Bill 331 requires the Board of Trustees of each public university and community college to pay employees their daily, regular rate of pay and benefits if a campus is closed due to a city, county or state declaration of a winter weather emergency. The law does not apply if the day is rescheduled and the employee would be paid their daily, regular rate of pay and benefits for the rescheduled day when services are rendered.

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Turner law holds bad actors in the EMS field accountable

SPRINGFIELD – A new law spearheaded by State Senator Doris Turner will increase public safety by suspending EMS professionals who have been charged with a crime while performing their duties.

“We have to hold bad actors accountable,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “People need to know that those who respond to an emergency will prioritize their safety.”

Turner’s law will allow the director of the Illinois Department of Public Health, or their designee, to determine if the suspension of an EMS professional should extend statewide. This will apply in situations when an EMS professional has been charged with a crime while performing their official duties and continuing to practice poses the possibility of harm to the public.

“By putting these guardrails in place, we are ensuring public safety is at the forefront of our priorities,” said Turner.

Senate Bill 3134 was signed into law Friday and is effective immediately.

Turner announces additional affordable housing units coming to Decatur

DECATUR – With the federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credits, more affordable housing units will be available in Decatur, State Senator Doris Turner announced.

“I am beyond thrilled to see the old Garfield School won’t be demolished, but instead will be transformed into 63 units of new affordable housing for our seniors,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “This will help bring community development, jobs and housing options into Decatur.”

A total of $23.8 million in federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credits will finance the creation and preservation of 16 affordable housing developments in 10 counties across Illinois. Once completed, the developments will offer 792 affordable units for low- to moderate-income families, seniors and persons with special needs.

“I applaud the Illinois Housing Development Authority and everyone involved in making this development possible,” said Turner. “I can’t wait to cut the ribbon when construction is complete.”

More information regarding LIHTC can be found here.