SPRINGFIELD – With America’s 250^th birthday approaching in a few years, State Senator Doris Turner (D-Springfield) says it’s time to get the party planning started.

“This is a tremendous occasion. Our great country has a deep and beautiful history to highlight,” Turner said. “I am honored to play a role in this historic event.”

Turner, a Democrat from Springfield, was the chief Senate sponsor of a newly signed law that officially creates the Illinois party planning committee to work on how to best celebrate the 250^th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence on and around July 4, 2026. That law, first filed in House Bill 5015, was signed last Friday by the governor.

“This is a special time for the nation as we reflect on our history and accomplishments while also charting a course for the future,” Turner said. “Celebrations will ring from the coast of Maine to the glaciers of Alaska, and we want to make sure Illinois joins in those celebrations with a truly special program.”

Members of the Illinois America 250 Commission would be appointed by the governor, lieutenant governor and legislative leaders and would reflect the diversity of people, experiences and industries of Illinois. The commission would be in charge of planning, promoting and implementing an appropriate commutations.

The commission will work to highlight important milestones in our state’s history in relation to our nation’s history.