SPRINGFIELD – Motorcycles can now be equipped with forward facing turn signals and driving lights under a measure spearheaded by State Senator Doris Turner that was signed into law Friday.

“Drivers need to be aware of what’s going on around them,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “Motorcyclists aren’t always easy to see on the road so we need to make sure they have all the tools they need to be safe and visible.”

The new law allows a motorcycle to be equipped with two forward facing electric turn signals that emit a white or amber light. Two driving lights can be added that display a steady white or amber light in addition to the already required headlamps. Lastly, the law allows a motorcycle to be equipped with red-light auxiliary lighting to use while braking.

Turner’s law seeks to provide clarity regarding new standard lighting on the front of motorcycles by increasing the visibility of a motorcycle and providing a clear indication of what the motorcycle is doing, similar to a vehicle.

“This is a win for all drivers,” said Turner. “Now, motorcyclists can have the lights and indicators they need to show others on the road where they are.”

Senate Bill 896 takes effect Jan. 1, 2024.

SPRINGFIELD – Motorcyclists will no longer have to complete a duplicate driver’s test with the Secretary of State under a new law sponsored by State Senator Doris Turner.

“This initiative eases the process for motorcyclists to get their license without taking repetitive, unnecessary tests,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “We aren’t lessening requirements for drivers. We are getting rid of a redundant process.”

The new law removes the requirement for a motorcyclist under the age of 18 to complete a motorcycle driver's examination with the Secretary of State. Previously, 16 to 17 year old motorcyclists were required to complete a Cycle Driver Testing Course provided by the Illinois Department of Transportation and an additional examination by the Secretary of State.

“Young motorcyclists will be able to enjoy the natural resources Illinois offers without being burdened by duplicate tests,” said Turner.

House Bill 2582 takes effect Jan. 1, 2024.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Doris Turner passed a measure that recognizes the impact of the opioid crisis on children and families across Illinois through the Senate on Friday.

“The opioid crisis has taken thousands of Illinois residents’ lives,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “It’s time we shine a light on the impact it has left on children and families. We need to prioritize support programs that can bring real, valuable solutions to these problems.”

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Doris Turner passed a measure to honor James L. Easterly’s accomplishments and dedication to the state by designating an Illinois Department of Transportation building in his name.

“This is one way for me to honor Mr. Easterly’s mentorship and friendship to Illinois,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “He dedicated his career to public service and to build a better Illinois. I’m honored to carry this measure that honors a true leader for our state and the transportation industry.”

House Joint Resolution 22 designates the Illinois Department of Transportation’s District 6 Headquarters in Springfield as the "James L. Easterly Building." Easterly's accomplishments have made a lasting impression on IDOT and the state.

SPRINGFIELD – To promote community gardening, State Senator Doris Turner championed a measure that would provide incentives for affordable housing projects that incorporate urban and suburban gardening.

“Gardening can help households cut down on food costs,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “Providing affordable housing units an incentive to garden allows residents to have access to nutritional foods right outside their doors.”

House Bill 3892 would allow the Illinois Housing Development Authority to develop a program that provides incentives for affordable housing projects that incorporate urban and suburban gardening.

SPRINGFIELD – To remove barriers for motorcyclists, State Senator Doris Turner championed a measure through the Senate that would remove the requirement to complete a duplicate driver’s test with the Secretary of State.

“Young motorcyclists have to take repetitive, unnecessary tests to get their license,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “Removing this requirement is an easy fix to speed up the process.”

House Bill 2582 would remove the requirement for a motorcyclist under the age of 18 to complete a motorcycle driver's examination with the Secretary of State. Under current law, 16 to 17 year old motorcyclists are required to complete a Cycle Driver Testing Course provided by the Illinois Department of Transportation and an additional examination by the Secretary of State.

SPRINGFIELD – To prioritize agricultural education experiences, State Senator Doris Turner spearheaded a measure through the Senate that allows students to count hours that they participate in a work-based learning experience as hours of school work, including Future Farmers of America or 4-H program competitions or exhibitions.

”Students learn through experiences, both inside and outside of the classroom,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “I’ve been a strong advocate for ag education and want to ensure students aren’t being jeopardized for attending FFA and 4-H program events. These programs provide hands-on experience in the agriculture industry which is prominent here in Illinois.”

House Bill 3814 would allow students to count hours that they participate in a work-based learning experience as hours of school work. The measure would include participation in scheduled events of state and national Future Farmers of America associations as well as 4-H programs as part of organized competitions or exhibitions – something Turner advocates strongly for.

Illinois FFA is a youth organization that prepares members for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education. 4-H is the largest out-of-school youth organization across the state aimed at teaching practical skills to youth by offering lessons in communications, leadership, career development, livestock, home improvement and computer technology.

“When events like fairs and competitions conflict with school schedules, students have been penalized for missing school” Turner said. “As chair of the Senate Agriculture Committee and a member of the Senate Education Committee, I know the valuable experiences students get from participating in hands-on learning. This is one step forward to continue encouraging students to learn about agriculture and what the industry has to offer.”

House Bill 3814 passed the Senate with bipartisan support.

“I am proud to stand with the Black farmers of Illinois,” says Turner (D-Springfield). “As chair of the Senate Agriculture Committee, I want to be a voice for all members of our agriculture community.”

This week commemorates the first Black Farmers Week in the state. Black Farmers Week was established this year by House Representative Sonya Harper with the support of Senator Turner to encourage the people of Illinois and all representatives in government to learn about the history of Black farming communities and the contributions made by African Americans in the agriculture field.