Senate Democrats praise new ‘Surplus to Success’ program in Fiscal Year 2026 budget

SPRINGFIELD – Following the passage of the state’s seventh balanced budget, Senate Democrats highlighted a historic $500 million investment in site readiness to revitalize vacant sites in the state to attract new business and job opportunities.

The site readiness initiative includes two major components:

• $300 million for the “Surplus to Success” program led by the Illinois Department of Central Management Services, which will prepare idle state-owned properties for private development.
• $200 million for the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity to expand its existing Site Readiness programs and fund large-scale business attraction efforts.

Read more: Senate Democrats praise new ‘Surplus to Success’ program in Fiscal Year 2026 budget

Morrison strengthens due process for FOID card holders

SPRINGFIELD — In an effort to strengthen public safety while improving the state’s appeals process for FOID card decisions, State Senator Julie Morrison advanced legislation that would create a more transparent and efficient pathway for individuals whose FOID cards are revoked or denied.

House Bill 850 would establish an expedited review process for individuals who believe they have been wrongly deemed a “clear and present danger,” allowing them to more quickly resolve their case through the existing Firearm Owner’s Identification Card Review Board.

Read more: Morrison strengthens due process for FOID card holders

Villivalam: Illinoisans deserve a world-class public transit system

SPRINGFIELD — Following eight subject matter hearings with over 35 hours of testimony, State Senator Ram Villivalam passed legislation through the Senate aimed at addressing issues facing the current public transit system in Illinois.

“Over the last 19 months, I have collaborated and held discussions with stakeholders, advocates, transit workers and everyday riders about the state of transit, issues currently facing the system and what we can do to improve service for its riders,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago). “It’s imperative that we deliver a public transit system that provides reliable service for its riders and is accountable to our taxpayers. Now is the time to break through the status quo and embrace solutions made for lasting change.”

Read more: Villivalam: Illinoisans deserve a world-class public transit system

Hunter measure to study food desert reduction efforts in Illinois

SPRINGFIELD — As many communities in Illinois still grapple with limited access to quality, healthy food, State Senator Mattie Hunter is sponsoring a measure aimed at looking into the effectiveness of efforts to reduce food deserts.

“Access to quality and fresh food is a basic right that each person in our community deserves,” said Hunter (D-Chicago). “Although the state has taken steps to address these inequities, it is imperative that we continue to reflect on the initiatives aimed at addressing this issue and learn more about what can be done in the future.”

Read more: Hunter measure to study food desert reduction efforts in Illinois