Morrison bill targets drug linked to overdose deaths
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SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Julie Morrison is spearheading efforts to tackle the rise in dangerous synthetic drug abuse in Illinois by classifying xylazine — a powerful animal tranquilizer often mixed with fentanyl — as a controlled substance while protecting legal veterinary usage.
“Too many families have lost loved ones to synthetic opioid usage, and xylazine is making these drugs even deadlier,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “This bill reflects a proactive step in addressing a crisis that touches every corner of our state.”
Senate Bill 1773 would update the state’s controlled substance classifications to better address emerging drug trends, such as the mixing of fentanyl and xylazine. The bill, an initiative of the Illinois State Police, aims to provide law enforcement with more effective tools to combat the evolving challenges posed by illicit drug use. It would categorize xylazine as a Schedule III controlled substance and clear up legal definitions to align Illinois law with federal standards, preventing loopholes that could put people at risk.
Morrison-supported legislation targets plastic bag pollution
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SPRINGFIELD — Plastic pollution is a widespread issue in the Great Lakes region, with an estimated 11 million pounds of plastic entering Lake Michigan alone each year. To help reduce the volume of single-use plastic items, State Senator Julie Morrison is supporting efforts to eliminate plastic bags at Illinois retailers.
“Plastic doesn’t go away — it breaks into smaller pieces that end up in our water sources, wildlife and eventually, our bodies,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest), whose district borders Lake Michigan. “This plastic accumulation creates a sustained environmental and health hazard that needs to be addressed.”
Senate Bill 1872 would prohibit retailers from offering single-use plastic bags beginning Jan. 1, 2029. Businesses would be allowed to offer customers the option to purchase recycled paper bags for 10 cents per bag. Restaurants, gas stations under 5,000 square feet, and small businesses with 12 or fewer locations in Illinois employing 250 or fewer employees would be exempt from the plastic bag ban.
Morrison outlines plan to strengthen state’s response to human trafficking
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SPRINGFIELD — To improve how the state identifies and supports victims of human trafficking, State Senator Julie Morrison joined the director of Illinois State Police, state agency representatives and a trafficking survivor at a press conference Wednesday to outline her bipartisan proposal to streamline services among agencies.
“Human trafficking is a horrific crime that too often goes unrecognized,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “This legislation is the result of years of collaboration aimed at strengthening efforts to identify individuals who are being exploited and enhancing support for survivors in their recovery.”
Senate Bill 2323 works to address human trafficking in Illinois through a victim-centered, trauma-informed approach. Based on recommendations from the Joint Human Trafficking Working Group — formed in 2023 with input from over 60 stakeholders and state agencies — the bill would establish a strategic plan to build a network of services for trafficking survivors, including the creation of standards of care for medical and legal service providers.
Morrison fights for veterans’ food security
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SPRINGFIELD — Despite dedicating their time and safety to serve our country, over 11% of veterans face food insecurity in the U.S. — an issue State Senator Julie Morrison looks to remedy through legislation that will help more Illinois military families access food benefits.
“I’ve seen veterans in my district who are forced to rely on food pantries because their household doesn’t qualify for SNAP benefits,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “Veterans served our state and our nation — they should be able to access the resources they need to live comfortably.”
Morrison’s measure, Senate Bill 32, would raise the income level at which households with a veteran or member of the Armed Forces would be eligible for benefits through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. Under current law, households without seniors or individuals with disabilities must have a gross income at or below 165% of the federal poverty guidelines — for a family of four, this would be a monthly income limit of $4,290 for Fiscal Year 2025. Senate Bill 32 proposes raising this threshold to 200% of the poverty level for veterans and military families, which would bring the monthly income limit to $5,200.
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Welcome to my legislative website! I am proud to serve as the State Senator from Illinois' 29th District, representing portions of the North Suburbs of Chicago in Lake and Cook Counties.
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Sincerely,
Julie Morrison
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