Illinois State Senator Dave Koehler
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Koehler's bill creating the Illinois Freedom Trails Commission passes Senate

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Category: Press Releases
Wednesday, April 09, 2025 02:01 PM

Sb1607 3rd reading

SPRINGFIELD – Legislation sponsored by State Senator Dave Koehler to establish the Illinois Freedom Trails Commission and preserve the state's Underground Railroad history passed the Senate Wednesday.

"This commission honors the courage of freedom seekers and highlights Illinois' critical role in their journey," said Koehler (D-Peoria). "By preserving and sharing these important historical sites, we ensure future generations understand and appreciate this powerful part of our state's story."

Senate Bill 1607 would create the Illinois Freedom Trails Commission, which would identify, preserve and promote historic sites linked to the Underground Railroad across Illinois. The commission would also support educational initiatives and provide grants to maintain these important landmarks. Additionally, the commission would report annually to the governor and General Assembly, providing recommendations for ongoing preservation and education efforts

"Preserving our history is essential to building a better future," Koehler said. "Through this commission, we can ensure the stories of bravery, perseverance, and freedom are told and remembered."

Senate Bill 1607 now advances to the House for further consideration.

Koehler champions bill supporting student leaders in higher education

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Category: Press Releases
Wednesday, April 09, 2025 09:24 AM

 

SB 1475

SPRINGFIELD – To support students serving in critical leadership roles within Illinois' higher education system, State Senator Dave Koehler has introduced Senate Bill 1475, which would provide scholarship assistance to student members of the state's higher education boards.

"Student voices are essential in shaping Illinois' higher education policies, yet serving on these boards requires significant commitment," Koehler said. “Offering scholarship assistance recognizes their contributions and helps ease these students' financial burdens."

Under Senate Bill 1475, student members serving on the Board of Higher Education and the Illinois Community College Board would receive a $500 scholarship for each semester they are enrolled and actively serving.

Currently, student board members receive no compensation other than reimbursement for travel and related expenses. This legislation aims to acknowledge their commitment and support their educational pursuits.

The Board of Higher Education includes two student members, one of whom represents non-traditional undergraduate students—typically those who are older, employed or parents—ensuring diverse student perspectives are included. The Illinois Community College Board features a student representative who serves a one-year term and provides input reflecting community college student experiences.

"These students dedicate significant time and effort to advocate for their peers and improve higher education across Illinois," Koehler said. "This legislation is a step forward in ensuring their valuable contributions are recognized and supported."

Senate Bill 1475 passed the Senate Higher Education Committee Wednesday.

Koehler works to establish Freedom Trails Commission

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Category: Press Releases
Thursday, April 03, 2025 04:02 PM

koehler031925CM0430

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Dave Koehler is leading an initiative to establish the Illinois Freedom Trails Commission to preserve Illinois' history and honor the legacy of freedom seekers.

“This is an opportunity to recognize the courage of those who sought freedom and to educate future generations about Illinois’ role in the Underground Railroad,” said Koehler (D-Peoria). “By identifying and preserving these historic sites, we can ensure their stories are never forgotten.”

Senate Bill 1607 would create the Illinois Freedom Trails Commission, which would be tasked with researching, commemorating and promoting sites significant to the journey of freedom seekers in Illinois. The commission would work to establish educational initiatives, preserve historical landmarks, and administer grants to support these efforts.

Under this legislation, the commission would also be required to submit an annual report to the governor and the General Assembly detailing its findings and recommendations for further preservation and education efforts.

“By investing in our history, we are investing in our future,” said Koehler. “The stories of those who traveled through Illinois in search of freedom deserve to be told, and this commission will work towards making sure that happens.”

Senate Bill 1607 passed Senate State Government Committee Thursday.

 

 

 

Koehler fights for funding for Bloomington-Normal, Peoria education and workforce

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Category: Press Releases
Wednesday, February 19, 2025 02:11 PM

Koehler BudgetAddress Yellow

SPRINGFEILD- State Senator Dave Koehler (D-Peoria) released the following statement after the governor outlined his proposal for Fiscal Year 2026:

“As we navigate a challenging budget landscape, it's imperative that we prioritize our investments to serve the most pressing needs of our communities.

“We must focus on areas that will have the most significant impact, such as our schools and universities, and we must support our workforce and job training programs. At the same time, we need to ensure access to affordable health care, invest in infrastructure improvements, and expand resources for public safety and mental health services. By making strategic decisions, we can uphold our commitment to fiscal responsibility while creating growth and stability in Peoria, Bloomington-Normal, and beyond.”

 

More Articles …

  1. Koehler sworn in to seventh term in state Senate
  2. Koehler announces $1.2 million in grants for local parks
  3. Koehler applauds funding to local organization providing adolescent health care
  4. Koehler outlines recommendations to enhance historic remembrance of Underground Railroad in Illinois
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Welcome

Thank you for visiting my web site. It is an honor to serve you as State Senator of the 46th Senate District. Keeping you informed of my work in the General Assembly is an important part of my job. Please feel free to explore this web site and use it as a resource for accessing the many services offered by your state and local government.

If you have any questions, comments, or concerns, please feel free to contact my office. I encourage you to visit our site often to receive updated information.

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Contact Info

Springfield Office:
323B Capitol Building
Springfield, IL 62706
(217) 782-8250

Peoria Office:
1203 East Kingman Ave.
Peoria Heights, IL 61616
(309) 677-0120

Bloomington-Normal Office:
216 N. Center St.
Bloomington, IL 61701
(309) 808-2345

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