Senator Sally Turner Hosts Youth Advisory Council for Local High School Students
On April 10, State Senator Sally Turner welcomed around 30 high school students from the 44th Senate District to the Illinois State Capitol to participate in her Youth Advisory Council (YAC) program. The students were able to learn more about state government, public service, and the legislative process through a hands-on experience.
Students had the opportunity to tour the Capitol, visit the Senate chamber, and learn about the inner workings of state government. They also heard from lobbyists and policy experts about how legislation is shaped before taking part in their own mock committee debate.
Senator Turner stressed that it is important for the youth to see how committees work and how a bill makes it to the Senate floor.
This event was an opportunity that allowed students to engage with one another in the legislative process, an experience that was a first for many of the students.
During their visit, students had the opportunity to hear from State Senator Erica Harriss of the 56th Senate District. The Illinois Railroad Association President, Tim Butler, also spoke to the students about his experience as both a former legislator and lobbyist.
Senator Turner’s Youth Advisory Council provides students with a unique opportunity to engage with state government and develop a deeper understanding of how laws are made. The program is open to high school students across the 44th Senate District, and those interested in participating in future events are encouraged to contact their principal or superintendent for more information.
Senate Democrats Advance Dangerous Cannabis Bill
Senate Democrats recently advanced controversial legislation that potentially ties the hands of police and puts public safety at risk.
Senate Bill 42 removes the requirement that cannabis be stored in an odor-proof container and prevents law enforcement from stopping or searching a vehicle solely based on the smell of cannabis.
Senate Republicans argue that this proposal handcuffs law enforcement and undermines their ability to identify impaired drivers. The smell of cannabis has long been a reasonable and constitutionally accepted basis for officers to investigate potential impairment and, in turn, remove drivers who may be under the influence to ensure the safety of other drivers on Illinois roadways. If the smell of alcohol warrants further investigation, why should cannabis be treated differently?
State Senator Sally Turner opposed the measure when it came before the Senate, arguing that the proposal sends the wrong message to Illinois drivers and discourages proactive policing of our roads.
SB 42 now advances to the House for further consideration.
Illinois House Passes Controversial Mascot Ban
On April 10, the Illinois House of Representatives advanced House Bill 1237, a controversial measure that would ban Native-themed mascots and logos in schools statewide.
The proposal requires affected schools to rebrand by July 1, 2026, unless they secure and renew approval every five years from a federally recognized tribe. At least 90 schools would be impacted, many of which face steep, unfunded costs to replace uniforms, signage, and other materials. This pulls valuable resources away from classrooms, teachers, and student services.
Senate Republicans argue that this bill ignores the local significance of these mascots, which often represent pride, heritage, and long-standing community identity. In some cases, schools have worked directly with tribes to ensure cultural respect and collaboration.
At a time when Illinois faces a multibillion-dollar deficit and rising financial pressures, lawmakers should focus on real fiscal priorities and not micromanage local school identity and traditions.
Firefighting helicopter refill pump awarded “Coolest Thing Made in Illinois” in 2025
A firefighting helicopter refill pump recently emerged as the winner of the 2025 Makers Madness contest, earning the title of “the coolest thing made in Illinois.”
Chosen in a bracket-style competition from a field of more than 250 products, MTH Pumps’ (owned and operated out of Plano, Illinois) aerial firefighting helicopter refill pump became the winner of the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association’s competition. This specific pump was designed to cut the refill time of water tanks used on helicopters to fight fires in half, taking as little as 30 seconds to refill.
The product was used by fire departments in California to fight wildfires in January. Tim Tremain, president of MTH Pumps, said the Los Angeles Fire Department praised the pump, calling it, “very consistent, very helpful and very reliable out in the field.”
Three other finalists were also recognized at the ceremony, including aircrew systems tester made by Chemring Energetic Devices of Downers Grove, donor breastmilk distributed by Mother’s Milk Bank of Western Great Lakes of Elk Grove Village and a remote-operated oil skimmer made by Elastec of Carmi.
Upcoming Mobile DMV in Hopedale
State Senator Sally Turner is partnering with the Secretary of State’s office to bring their mobile unit to the Village of Hopedale on Wednesday, April 23.
Available services will include driver’s license renewals and replacements, state ID card renewals and replacements, license plate sticker renewals, and Real IDs.
Due to limited time, please sign up for an available spot by emailing Abbey at APeterson@sgop.ilga.gov or calling 217-558-1491.
