Crib bumper ban approved by Illinois Senate committee (WAND 17) May 14

A ban on selling crib bumpers has been approved by an Illinois Senate committee.  Prior to voting on Tuesday, the committee cited an American Academy of Pediatric warning, which says the bumpers could cause infants to suffocate in their sleep.

State Senator Julie Morrison sponsored the measure, which passed the Illinois House 64-46 on April 8.  Mesh bumpers are not included in the plan.

Chicago Jewish leaders discuss funding concerns on annual Springfield mission (JUF News) May 2

“The power of collaboration among the Jewish Federation agencies is highlighted on the Springfield mission, particularly when we bring our message directly to the legislators,” said Wendy Abrams, vice chair of the Federation's Government Affairs Committee and State chair.

NSSD celebrates 100th anniversary (Lake County News-Sun) April 24

The North Shore Sanitary District and Wrigley Field, home of the Chicago Cubs, have something they share in common. Both became centenarians, or 100 years old, this month.

Democrat's boat safety plans advance (Daily Herald) April 9

The Senate Wednesday approved requiring safety certificates of boaters born in 1991 or later driving a motorboat with more than 10 horsepower.

"The next generation will all have certificates, and it's important for Illinois," Morrison said.

She said the plan was set up for younger boaters because it would make it easier for the Department of Natural Resources to administer certificates.

Our Opinion: Naming DCFS chief must be a priority for Quinn (Springfield Journal - Register) April 3

Illinoisans should share the concerns of state Sen. Julie Morrison, D-Deerfield, who oversaw hearings in the fall that were triggered by problems documented in the DCFS audit. She said that without a permanent leader, needed reforms within DCFS will be indefinitely on hold.

“It's hard to get traction when you don't have anybody that's really leading this,” she was quoted as saying.

Quinn must name a replacement as soon as possible — one that is well qualified, reform minded and willing to stick around for the long haul for the sake of Illinois' abused and neglected children.