SPRINGFIELD – To ensure people with gluten intolerances aren’t unknowingly consuming gluten in the medications they take, State Senator Julie Morrison (D-Lake Forest) sponsored a measure to require oral drugs to carry proper warning labels.

“Restaurants and grocery stores have increased their gluten-free offerings and have become far better equipped to properly label and handle items for people with dietary restrictions,” Morrison said. “People with Celiac and other gluten intolerances should feel just as protected when visiting a pharmacy.”

Under the legislation passed Thursday, any prescription or over-the-counter drug that contains gluten but is not labeled as such would be considered misbranded. Because most medications do not contain gluten, consumers are often under the assumption none do unless otherwise specified. Therefore, if a drug does contain gluten and is not accurately labeled, a person with Celiac or other gluten intolerances could take it and be surprised with harmful health issues.

Celiac disease affects nearly three million American who must follow a fully gluten-free diet. Many more struggle with gluten sensitivity.

“The measure will make it easier and safer for people with Celiac disease or gluten sensitivity to make informed purchases of necessary medications,” Morrison said. “We expect the food we purchase to be properly labeled, so why shouldn’t we expect the same from the medications we take?”

House Bill 279 has now passed both chambers.

SPRINGFIELD – As physical attacks against Jewish individuals and communities increase, and anti-Semitic rhetoric around the globe and in Illinois becomes more wide-spread, State Senator Julie Morrison (D-Lake Forest) released the following statement:

“I am extremely troubled by recent events in which the basic right of freedom of religion has been challenged. Anti- Semitic attacks – or acts of discrimination of any kind – have no place in our state or country. All people deserve to freely express their thoughts and practice their religious beliefs without fear of violence or discrimination.

“We need to strive for open dialogue and mutual understanding with all the citizens of our communities. We should all be advocates for peacebuilding and conflict resolution.”  

 

SPRINGFIELD – Findings from a report requested by State Senator Julie Morrison (D-Lake Forest) shows LGBTQ youth in care of the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services are not being properly identified, placed, tracked or counted. It also found DCFS did not provide training to its contracted service providers, who become responsible for these youth.

Today, Morrison is calling on the department to adhere to its own policies immediately.

“LGBTQ youth in care are disproportionately likely to become homeless and deal with mental health struggles, yet the very agency that is supposed to protect them is doing them great disservice,” Morrison said. “DCFS fell short. It is not adhering to its own policies put in place to respect LGBTQ children’s identities and the care they need.”

The auditor general investigated how many LGBTQ children were under the care of DCFS and the number of providers deemed “clinically appropriate” for the kids. However, the audit found the agency "does not collect sufficient information regarding whether those in care are LGBTQ."

“We must ensure all children are placed in understanding environments that accept them and supports their authentic selves,” Morrison said.

HIGHWOOD – State Senator Julie Morrison (D-Lake Forest) is congratulating Highwood Public Library for winning the highest honor a library can achieve from the Institute of Museum of Library Services. 

“The library is more than books and periodicals. It’s technology for low-income families. It’s a guiding hand during the pandemic when jobs were lost, when schools were closed, and when the pantries were bare,” Morrison said. “It’s a place Highwood residents could count on for acceptance, connection and ongoing support.”

Highwood Public Library was awarded the 2021 National Medal for Museum and Library Service Award from the Institute of Museum and Library Services. It will be presented the award at a virtual ceremony in July.

Highwood Public Library was one of just six award winners nationwide. To receive the medal, libraries must provide dynamic programming and services that exceed expected levels of services. Additionally, the libraries must bring change that touches the lives of people and helps the community thrive.

“There is no library more deserving of the honor and recognition than Highwood,” Morrison said. “From educational support to free multicultural and bilingual programs and services, the library is a one-stop shop for all residents’ needs.”

To read more about Highwood Public Library’s recognition, people can visit the Institute of Museum of Library Services’ website.