No one should face barriers to care after experiencing sexual assault. Senator Julie Morrison joins the Sound of the State to explain how her new law requires hospitals to put survivors first—strengthening trauma-informed care, expanding nurse examiner training, and giving the Illinois Department of Public Health more authority to ensure hospitals meet their responsibilities.

The Illinois State Fair is more than fun and funnel cakes — it’s a celebration of agriculture, youth leadership, and investment in our state’s #1 industry. Senator Doris Turner and Illinois Department of Agriculture Director Jerry Costello talk about upgrades to the fairgrounds, diversity in ag, and what the future holds for FFA, 4-H, and more.

State Senator Lakesia Collins is leading the charge for birth justice in Illinois. In this episode of The Sound of the State, she explains how legislation she carried this year removes barriers for certified nurse midwives and expands access to care, particularly in underserved communities.

In this episode of Sound of the State, State Senator Dave Koehler discusses the Freedom Trails Commission — a statewide effort to map and connect Underground Railroad sites throughout Illinois. Building on the work of the Underground Railroad Task Force, the commission will help communities share their unique histories and preserve the legacy of freedom seekers. From local efforts in Peoria to broader stories across the state, hear how Illinois aims to honor this critical chapter of American history while remaining a beacon of hope today.

In this episode,State Senator Graciela Guzmán discusses her proposal to expand SNAP eligibility for college students and address food insecurity on college campuses in Illinois. Senator Guzmán goes into detail about her personal connection to the cause, and how this legislation could help over 100,000 students access basic nutrition while pursuing their education.

State Senator Christopher Belt joins the Sound of the State to share his powerful personal story as a kidney transplant recipient and efforts he has championed to advocate for organ donation in Illinois.

In this Black History Month episode, State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. sits down with the president of the Pullman Porter Museum,  Dr. David Peterson Jr., to discuss the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters – a pivotal moment in the labor and civil rights movements.

In this episode, we dive into Karina’s Law—a groundbreaking measure to protect domestic violence survivors by closing loopholes in firearm removal. Senator Villanueva shares how this law honors Karina Gonzalez and others affected by similar tragedies, the challenges faced during the legislative process, and what’s next in the fight for survivor safety. Tune in to learn how this law will make a difference and what resources are available for those in need.