Morrison supports Karina’s Law – a notable win to protect survivors of domestic violence

SPRINGFIELD – A longstanding champion of gun safety legislation – and advocate for survivors of domestic violence – State Senator Julie Morrison proudly supported a measure to ensure people with domestic violence-related restraining orders may have their firearms revoked in an appropriate amount of time.

“Karina's Law focuses on a critical, shared goal: preventing those who pose a threat from accessing firearms, while strengthening coordination between law enforcement and advocacy groups to protect domestic violence survivors,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “Protection orders must serve their intended purpose by ensuring those who pose a threat are promptly disarmed.”

House Bill 4144 – also known as Karina's Law– would strengthen firearm removal requirements when domestic violence protection orders are issued. Law enforcement agencies would be required to remove firearms from individuals due to emergency restraining orders within 96 hours of a judge’s order.

This new policy provides clear guidelines for enforcement, ensuring consistent application across the state and addressing the risks associated with firearms and domestic violence situations. The legislation follows the July 2023 deaths of Karina Gonzalez and her teenage daughter Daniela, who were allegedly killed by Gonzalez's husband shortly after obtaining a protection order against him. Under that order, no steps were taken to make sure he gave up his guns.

In domestic violence cases, a gun in the home increases the risk of homicide by 500%, according to a report from The Network – an organization advocating against domestic violence.

“Research shows domestic violence situations involving firearms present severe and potentially lethal risks to survivors,” said Morrison. “The system has long failed women in Illinois, and I am proud we stepped up to protect future survivors.”

House Bill 4144 passed the Senate Monday.

Morrison celebrates oldest living former NASA astronaut

DEERFIELD – State Senator Julie Morrison commemorated Dec. 21, 2024 as James A. Lovell Day to celebrate the Lake Forest man whose words of, “Houston, we've had a problem,” are still said daily some 54 years later. 

“James A. Lovell’s extraordinary courage and skills have left an indelible mark on human space exploration,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “His achievements have long inspired generations to dream big and persevere in the face of seemingly impossible challenges.”

Lovell is best known for his remarkable role in the Apollo 13 mission – an incredible story of survival and human resilience. In April 1970, when an oxygen tank explosion crippled their spacecraft, Lovell and his crew transformed what could have been a tragic disaster into one of the most remarkable rescue missions in history. With limited resources and facing seemingly insurmountable challenges, they navigated their damaged spacecraft back to earth.

Before Apollo 13, Lovell was already a distinguished astronaut. He was the first person to travel to the moon twice, and went on two Gemini space flights and two Apollo missions – logging 715 hours in space. Today, Lovell is the oldest living former astronaut of NASA.

“I can't think of anyone more deserving of the honor. His leadership on Apollo 13 will never be forgotten, nor will his service aboard Apollo 8,” said State Senator Steve McClure (R-Springfield), the chief cosponsor of the legislation. “Captain Lovell is an American hero, and all Illinoisans are proud that he chooses to call our great state home.”

James A. Lovell Day will be celebrated Dec. 21, 2024 across the state following the adoption of Senate Resolution 1280.

Morrison receives award from Illinois Fire Safety Alliance

LAKE FOREST – State Senator Julie Morrison received an award from the Illinois Fire Safety Alliance for her efforts to fight for increased safety against fireworks.

“As a state senator, my highest priority has always been the safety and well-being of our community,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “The ongoing battle against fireworks legalization bills is about protecting lives, property, and the peace of mind of our residents.”

Morrison was presented with the Special Recognition Award for her ongoing commitment to fires safety measures and going above and beyond as an outspoken opponent on the expansion of fireworks sales across the state of Illinois. Her passion is present when educating the public, and other legislators, on the dangers of these life-threatening devices.

Morrison will continue to advocate for measures to keep communities safe.

Morrison to host mobile Secretary of State event

LAKE FORESET – State Senator Julie Morrison is hosting a mobile Secretary of State event in Lake Forest, which will give area residents the opportunity to access some Secretary of State services at a location in the community, rather than visiting a Secretary of State facility.

“The Mobile Unit makes it easier for some to receive necessary services at a convenient location,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “Spots are very limited, so make an appointment today.”

The event will be held on Wednesday, Nov. 6 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the Lake Forest City Hall – located at 220 E. Deerpath Rd. – in the City Council Chambers.  Appointments are required and limited to 48 and must be made by calling Senator Morrison’s office at 847-945-5200. Walk-ins are not guaranteed service.

The ability to apply for a first-time Real ID at mobile events was recently added to the list of services available through the Mobile Unit. Other services that will be available are

• Driver’s Licenses (Renewal, Duplicate, Corrected)
• State ID Cards (First Time, Renewal, Duplicate, Corrected) (no fee for ages 65 and older.)
• Vehicle Registration Stickers (expiring within the current year)
• Organ and Tissue Donor/Voter Registration with License or ID Application. (Not available as a standalone service)

Proper documentation must be provided in order for Mobile Unit staff to accept license and ID applications for processing. A chart of acceptable documents may be found at https://www.ilsos.gov/publications/pdf_publications/dsd_x173.pdf

Accepted forms of payment are Visa, Mastercard, AMEX, Discover Credit, and Debit cards. Personal check or money order for the exact amount due for services dated on the date of the transaction.

No written or road exams will be administered. Drivers aged 78 and older will need to visit a Secretary of State facility to renew their driver’s license.