SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Doris Turner passed a measure recognizing April 11-17, 2026 as Black Maternal Health Week in Illinois, reaffirming the state’s commitment to addressing maternal health disparities and improving outcomes for Black mothers and families.

“Every mother in Illinois deserves access to safe, respectful and high-quality care,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “This resolution highlights both the challenges we must confront and the incredible work already being done across our communities to support Black maternal health.”

Black Maternal Health Week, led nationally by the Black Mamas Matter Alliance, brings attention to the urgent need for equitable, culturally competent care and community-driven solutions.

Senate Resolution 713 recognizes the critical role of health care providers, community organizations and managed care partners. Turner’s resolution also calls for continued public-private partnerships and innovative care models that expand access, improve outcomes and strengthen accountability across Illinois’ maternal health ecosystem.

Turner encourages stakeholders across health care, government and community organizations to use Black Maternal Health Week as a platform for collaboration, awareness and action.

Senate Resolution 713 was adopted by the Senate Thursday.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Doris Turner, alongside State Representative Mike Coffey, Springfield Mayor Misty Buscher and Sangamon County Board Chair Andy Van Meter unveiled an economic development plan for downtown Springfield Tuesday.

“Four units of government are working together in a bipartisan manner to provide economic tools that will finance and fund the development of a new hotel and the expansion of the Bank of Springfield Center,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “We all share the same vision – a thriving downtown that strengthens our capital city while supporting jobs, tourism and economic growth.”

Senate Bill 3499 would establish the Capital Area Tourism Authority as a political subdivision and unit of local government, allowing the authority to exercise certain economic development powers. Turner’s legislation aims to promote business, industry, commerce and tourism in Springfield, Sangamon County, and the state of Illinois.

SPRINGFIELD – Building on her work to expand agriculture education, State Senator Doris Turner passed a measure through the Senate to increase access to agricultural education programs across Illinois. 

“Our state’s agriculture industry provides various paths that can lead to good-paying jobs,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “Students deserve to have the opportunity to see the number of avenues within the ag industry.”

Senate Bill 3226 would require the Illinois State Board of Education to submit a report on the status and availability of agricultural education programs statewide. The report would include trends, challenges and barriers, opportunities for expansion, and recommendations to better align agricultural education with workforce and post-secondary opportunities in agriculture and agribusiness.

SPRINGFIELD – In an effort to boost small businesses, State Senator Doris Turner is leading a measure to set aside reinvestment funds for capital expenses, such as building improvements, equipment and technology.

“Small businesses are the backbone of our communities, boosting local economies while bringing entertainment, food and more to our neighborhoods,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “It’s important that we give business owners the necessary tools to help them be successful, expand and thrive.”

Senate Bill 3614 would create the Small Business Asset Purchase Account for small businesses to deposit reinvestment funds. The measure would allow a 50% income tax deduction in the tax year the small-business owner contributes the funds and another 50% income tax deduction in the tax year the small-business owner withdraws the funds.  

Turner’s legislation aims to free small-business owners from the artificial constraints of the tax calendar, allowing them to re-invest their hard-earned funds at the optimal time and for their most pressing needs while avoiding unnecessary financing costs. 

Senate Bill 3614 was heard in the Senate Revenue Committee Thursday.