HIGHWOOD – Following recent findings that the Illinois Department of Children and Family was not respecting the needs of LGBTQ youth in care, the agency announced Tuesday it is enhancing its LGBTQ training and resources. State Senator Julie Morrison (D-Lake Forest) is calling on the department to adhere to its policies to ensure all children feel safe and heard.

“LGBTQ youth in care are disproportionately likely to become homeless and deal with mental health struggles,” Morrison said. “I am hopeful under the enhanced training DCFS will work more diligently to respect LGBTQ children’s identities and prioritize the care they need.”

To meet the needs of LGBTQ youth in care, DCFS said it will expand its network of gender-affirming therapists, service providers, health care professionals, agencies and organizations across the state. It also plans to launch enhanced required LGBTQ training for staff, private agency partners and foster caregivers this summer.

The increased training and services comes after an auditor general investigation that looked into how many LGBTQ children were under the care of DCFS and the number of providers deemed “clinically appropriate” for the kids. The audit found the agency "does not collect sufficient information regarding whether those in care are LGBTQ."

Morrison – who previously passed a resolution calling for the audit – immediately urged a change in training and policies at the agency.

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

LGBTQ youth in care, foster and adoptive parents, and child welfare staff may call the department’s LGBTQ Helpline at 855-814-8421 for assistance and answers to questions about their rights, available services and resources, and upcoming training opportunities.

DEERFIELD – State Senator Julie Morrison (D-Deerfield) is renewing her push for redistricting reform in Illinois after suffering a setback last week from the U.S. Supreme Court.

“The recent ruling by the Supreme Court shows the important role states play in ensuring our redistricting process is fair, transparent and free from political influence,” Morrison said. “I remain determined to ensure that Illinois will reform the way legislative districts are drawn.”

SPRINGFIELD – Legislation sponsored by State Senator Julie Morrison (D-Deerfield) that raises the age to legally purchase tobacco to 21 takes effect today.

“Throughout this entire process, our number one goal has been to reduce smoking rates in our teenage population,” said Morrison. “Raising the age has been proven to do just that. I am proud Illinois is a leader in protecting teenage health and reducing health care complications and premature death.”

DEERFIELD – Today, State Senator Julie Morrison (D-Deerfield) and leading organizations from across Illinois and Lake County launched a new statewide initiative to address the worsening opioid epidemic.

The Rx Abuse Leadership Initiative (RALI) of Illinois will focus on improving prevention, treatment and recovery strategies to help save the lives of Illinoisans. The new alliance is made up of more than 20 health care, law enforcement, veteran, community and drug prevention organizations committed to finding solutions to the opioid crisis.

“The opioid epidemic is the greatest public health crisis facing our state, and it is not slowing down,” Morrison said. “Opioid dependence can develop quickly and has devastating effects. A considerate and holistic approach is necessary to help address this crisis, and that is where RALI comes in.”