Press Releases

Morrison law to require better preparation to treat students with epilepsy

: Published: 12 July 2019

SPRINGFIELD – Students with epilepsy will be better protected at school under a new law signed today by Gov. JB Pritzker and sponsored by State Senator Julie Morrison (D-Deerfield).

“Nationwide, 470,000 children are affected by epilepsy. As children spend a large part of their day in the classroom, it is imperative schools are prepared to handle the unique set of health care needs of these students,” Morrison said.

Morrison’s new law – contained in House Bill 1475 – creates the Seizure Smart School Act, which would require the development of a plan for students with epilepsy that includes training for employees and care aides on how to handle students with the disorder.

Morrison announces $61 million for overhaul of Lake Bluff interchange

: Published: 05 July 2019

LAKE BLUFF - A long-planned upgrade to the interchange at Illinois Route 176 and U.S. Route 41 in Lake Bluff is closer to completion after State Senator Julie Morrison (D-Deerfield) announced today that $61 million for the project has been secured in the recently signed Rebuild Illinois capital construction plan.

"For years, commuters on this highly traveled stretch of roadway have faced delays and safety hazards," Morrison said. "Working with local officials, it was clear this project would greatly enhance travel safety in the area and I am proud to have fought for its inclusion in the Rebuild Illinois program."

Included in the more than $40 billion infrastructure plan investing in roads, bridges and mass transit is $61 million for a complete overhaul of the Lake Bluff interchange. The project will improve safety for motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians and support future growth at the gateway to Lake Bluff through access and drainage improvements.

Morrison law increases burial benefit for fallen firefighters, law enforcement officers

: Published: 28 June 2019

SPRINGFIELD – The burial benefit for law enforcement officers and firefighters killed in the line of duty will increase under a new law by State Senator Julie Morrison (D-Deerfield) that was signed by Gov. J.B. Pritzker this week.

“Every day, law enforcement officers and firefighters put their lives on the line to protect us all,” Morrison said. “The least we can do for fallen officers or firefighters is ensure their families aren’t left with worry about burying their loved one.”

Currently, the state burial benefit for firefighters, State Police officers or local law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty is $10,000. Morrison’s new law will increase that benefit to $20,000, acknowledging the ever-increasing costs associated with burials. Neither the benefit for State Police officers nor the benefit for local law enforcement officers and firefighters has been raised since its creation in the late 1990s.