Caucus News

ELGIN – State Senator Cristina Castro is encouraging eligible organizations and businesses to apply for $2.4 million in state tourism grant funding announced by Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity.

“The state’s $2.4 million investments in these tourism grant programs will build upon the success of our tourism industry while creating economic opportunities for Illinoisans,” said Castro (D-Elgin). “The Tourism Attraction and Tourism Private Sector grant programs are incredible opportunities for eligible entities to gain state support for their tourism endeavors across Illinois.”

State Senators Doris Turner and Dave Koehler are encouraging local farmers, food processors and agricultural businesses to apply for a new round of funding through the Local Food Infrastructure Grant Program, which will provide $1.8 million to strengthen Illinois’ local food supply chain.

“Everyone needs access to whole, nutritious, locally-sourced foods,” said Turner (D-Springfield), chair of the Senate Agriculture Committee. “By fortifying the food system, we are supporting our local farmers and mitigating food insecurity. This funding will expand access to fresh, local foods, strengthen the local economy, and grow the food supply chain.”

CHICAGO — Members of the Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus celebrated the announcement of relief for the agriculture industry to mitigate increasing diesel fuel costs.

The support allows Illinois farmers to use dyed diesel fuel when driving on roads, even though it is typically only used for agricultural purposes. Additional protections for farmers will also be considered as the fuel markets and agricultural economy face continued disruptions.

“Illinois farmers are already paying more to grow their crops, and now diesel is getting more expensive, too,” said State Senator Mike Halpin (D-Rock Island). “Nobody should pour their sweat into the land only to lose money on it. This diesel relief gives farmers a real chance to come out ahead, and that's exactly what they've earned.”

CHICAGO - From Chicago's Michigan Avenue to iconic roadside stops like the Cozy Dog Drive-In in Springfield, Illinois’ 300-mile stretch of Route 66 and other tourist attractions are getting a major financial boost.

Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity announced $4.6 million in new grant funding today to 49 grantees designed to preserve and promote tourism. Special projects include initiatives along Route 66 and destinations across the state and international markets.

“Chicago is Illinois’ front door to the world, welcoming visitors from across the country and around the globe who stay in our hotels, dine at our restaurants, shop at our small businesses, and experience everything our city and state have to offer,” said Feigenholtz (D-Chicago). “These investments will help ensure that visitors discover the communities, historic destinations, and cultural experiences that make our state unique.”

Tourism has reached record-breaking numbers. In fiscal year 2025, 115 million tourists visited Illinois, spending $50.2 billion.

To sustain this economic momentum, the state is investing in some of its most famous landmarks. The Route 66 Grant Program will receive $2 million to support special projects along the iconic highway that’s been the backdrop for generations of family trips, photos and memories.

To build on the legacy of Illinois travel, marketing efforts targeted at a range of travelers are part of the grant funding. The International Tourism Grant Program designates funding for targeted outreach to markets in countries like Mexico, Canada, UK/Ireland, Germany, India and Japan with the primary goal of increasing international travel to Illinois.

Through the Tourism Marketing Partnership Grant Program, funding will assist local organizations with promoting events to increase overnight stays.

With this latest investment, Illinois communities will have new opportunities to showcase what makes their part of the state worth exploring.

Senate Democrats highlight continued PFAS prevention efforts

SPRINGFIELD — As Illinois recognized PFAS Awareness Week, members of the Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus are highlighting a comprehensive effort to reduce exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, strengthen environmental monitoring and protect Illinois families from these persistent chemicals.

“Parents shouldn’t have to question whether products made for their children contain intentionally added chemicals when safer alternatives exist,” State Senator Laura Fine said. “This bill reduces unnecessary PFAS exposure in items designed for infants and children while still accounting for essential medical uses and federal requirements.”

Read more.

Harmon, Halpin support Joslin following Tyson Foods facility closure

JOSLIN — Senate President Don Harmon and State Senator Mike Halpin have fought to support the Joslin community following the recent closing of Tyson Foods’ beef plant in the town.

“Illinois is home to a world-leading agriculture industry built on generations of hard work by farm families and the people who process, move and deliver what they produce,” said Harmon (D-Oak Park). “We know this is a challenging time for many of those families and workers. I appreciate Governor Pritzker moving quickly to put the state’s economic development resources to work and sending a clear message that Illinois is ready to compete for the businesses and quality jobs these communities deserve.”

“I’m pleased to see Governor Pritzker and DCEO taking action to bring new jobs and investment to the former Tyson facility in Joslin,” said Halpin (D-Rock Island). “When Tyson abruptly closed the plant with little warning, thousands of hardworking people and their families were left facing an uncertain future. This community deserves better, and I’m hopeful this investment will help attract a new employer, create good-paying jobs and bring greater economic stability back to the region.”

Read more.

Joyce celebrates grand opening of Voortman Steel USA Headquarters in Monee

MONEE — State Senator Patrick Joyce joined Voortman Steel Machinery leadership, Governor Pritzker, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity and local leaders to celebrate the grand opening of the company’s $51 million expansion project in Monee.

“I am glad to say that this state has fully backed what we are seeing today,” said Joyce (D-Essex). “This is our third major project in this manufacturing corridor. The Voortman Headquarters will be in this community for generations to come, and that’s something to be proud of.”

Read more.

Children's Social Media Safety

Today’s parents face an ever-changing world of social media algorithms designed to keep children scrolling. State Senator Willie Preston discusses the Children’s Online Social Media Safety Act, recently signed into law to provide age verification, notification limits, privacy protections and put parents back in control.

Read more.

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Copyright 2026 - Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus - All Rights Reserved

MONEE – State Senator Patrick Joyce joined Voortman Steel Machinery leadership, Governor Pritzker, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity and local leaders to celebrate the grand opening of the company’s $51 million expansion project in Monee.

“I am glad to say that this state has fully backed what we are seeing today,” said Joyce (D-Essex). “This is our third major project in this manufacturing corridor. The Voortman Headquarters will be in this community for generations to come, and that’s something to be proud of.”

SPRINGFIELD – As Illinois recognizes PFAS Awareness Week, members of the Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus are highlighting a comprehensive effort to reduce exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, strengthen environmental monitoring and protect Illinois families from these persistent chemicals.

PFAS have been widely used in consumer and industrial products can persist in the environment. Illinois has taken significant steps to address PFAS in recent years, including establishing drinking water and groundwater standards and enacting restrictions on certain PFAS-containing products. Senate Democrats are continuing that work by advancing legislation focused on testing, source reduction, consumer protections, wastewater and the state’s water resources.

To better understand and address PFAS in Illinois’ waterways and wastewater systems, State Senator Laura Fine (D-Glenview) is leading efforts to increase testing and transparency through Senate Bill 3917. The law requires certain facilities operating under wastewater discharge permits to conduct periodic PFAS sampling, including testing of influent, effluent and biosolids at covered publicly owned treatment works. The law takes effect Jan. 1, 2027.

JOSLIN — State Senator Mike Halpin and Senate President Don Harmon have fought to support the Joslin community following the recent closing of Tyson Foods’ beef plant in the town.

“Illinois is home to a world-leading agriculture industry built on generations of hard work by farm families and the people who process, move and deliver what they produce,” said Harmon (D-Oak Park). “We know this is a challenging time for many of those families and workers. I appreciate Governor Pritzker moving quickly to put the state’s economic development resources to work and sending a clear message that Illinois is ready to compete for the businesses and quality jobs these communities deserve.”