PEORIA – Following the infrastructure investments backed by State Senator Dave Koehler, the Illinois Department of Transportation announced an investment of over $193 million in road and bridge improvement projects across McLean and Peoria counties.

“The Rebuild Illinois initiative is transforming our state’s transportation system,” said Koehler (D-Peoria). “This funding is a crucial step toward enhancing our roads and bridges, which will positively impact residents and businesses alike.”

As part of IDOT’s latest Multi-Year Plan under Rebuild Illinois, the district Koehler represents will see 24 infrastructure projects totaling more than $193 million next year.

SPRINGFIELD – In an effort to expand access to medication for hereditary bleeding disorders, State Senator Dave Koehler advanced a measure to cut red-tape practices used by insurance companies.

“Prior authorization processes can delay vital medical care, putting patients’ lives at risk,” said Koehler (D-Peoria). “We need to ensure Illinoisans can access the medications they need without delays.”

House Bill 4055 would prohibit prior authorization for FDA-approved medication for the treatment of hereditary bleeding disorders for up to six months. Prior authorization is a form of approval by insurance companies utilized before agreeing to cover medications and procedures. These checks can be for age, medical necessity, the availability of a medical alternative or drug interactions.

SPRINGFIELD – To help strengthen the creative arts economy in Illinois, State Senator Dave Koehler passed an initiative to form a Creative Economy Task Force to help the state attract and retain diverse businesses and talent.

“Creative businesses employ thousands of Illinoisans from all backgrounds,” said Koehler (D-Peoria). “In today’s digital era, creative arts are a driving force for our economy. This legislation keeps us ahead of the curve and will promote job opportunities for those seeking new ventures.”

The arts and culture sector generates $31.1 billion in economic impact and employs over 190,000 workers in Illinois, making it the fifth largest state for arts and culture employment. Illinois arts deliver over $478 million in state and local government revenue each year.

SPRINGFIELD – In an effort to expand access to medication for hereditary bleeding disorders, State Senator Dave Koehler is leading a measure to cut red-tape practices used by insurance companies.

“Residents should not have to wait for lifesaving medication because of restrictive insurance practices,” said Koehler (D-Peoria). “Illinoisans deserve to have access to doctor-recommended medication and treatments without waiting for insurance to determine if they need it.”

House Bill 4055 would prohibit prior authorization for FDA-approved medication for the treatment of hereditary bleeding disorders for up to six months. Prior authorization is a form of approval by insurance companies utilized before agreeing to cover medications and procedures. These checks can be for age, medical necessity, the availability of a medical alternative or drug interactions.