Sangamon Sun

State Senator Sally Turner hosted a Youth Advisory Council on April 10, welcoming approximately 30 high school students from the 44th Senate District at the Illinois State Capitol. This initiative provided students with a practical understanding of state government, public service, and the legislative process.

Participants toured the Capitol, visited the Senate chamber, and learned about state government’s operations. They also engaged with lobbyists and policy experts about legislative processes and participated in a mock committee debate. Senator Turner emphasized the importance of understanding committee functions and how legislation reaches the Senate floor.

Students heard from State Senator Erica Harriss of the 56th Senate District and Illinois Railroad Association President Tim Butler. Senator Turner's Youth Advisory Council encourages students to interact with state government. High school students in the 44th Senate District interested in future events are advised to reach out to their principal or superintendent for details.

Separately, Senate Bill 42, contested by Senate Republicans, advanced in the Senate. This bill removes requirements for odor-proof cannabis storage and limits law enforcement's authority to conduct vehicle searches based on cannabis odor. State Senator Sally Turner opposed the measure, arguing it compromises road safety and discourages proactive policing. The bill now moves to the House for further review.

The Illinois House of Representatives passed House Bill 1237 on April 10. This measure would ban Native-themed mascots and logos in schools statewide by July 1, 2026, unless they gain and renew tribal approval every five years. Senate Republicans argue the bill disregards the local significance and community identity of these mascots, diverting critical funds from educational necessities. The proposal affects approximately 90 schools.

In other news, MTH Pumps' firefighting helicopter refill pump won the 2025 Makers Madness contest. The pump, hailing from Plano, Illinois, drastically reduces water tank refill times for firefighting helicopters. MTH Pumps President Tim Tremain noted the Los Angeles Fire Department’s positive feedback on the product’s performance during California wildfires. Additional finalists included aircrew systems by Chemring Energetic Devices, donor breast milk from Mother’s Milk Bank of Western Great Lakes, and a remote-operated oil skimmer by Elastec.

Finally, State Senator Sally Turner will collaborate with the Secretary of State’s office to provide a Mobile DMV in Hopedale on April 23, offering services like driver's license renewals and Real IDs. Appointments can be scheduled through Abbey at apetersen@sgop.ilga.gov or by calling 217-558-1491.