LAKE FOREST – State Senator Julie Morrison received an award from the Illinois Fire Safety Alliance for her efforts to fight for increased safety against fireworks.

“As a state senator, my highest priority has always been the safety and well-being of our community,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “The ongoing battle against fireworks legalization bills is about protecting lives, property, and the peace of mind of our residents.”

Morrison was presented with the Special Recognition Award for her ongoing commitment to fires safety measures and going above and beyond as an outspoken opponent on the expansion of fireworks sales across the state of Illinois. Her passion is present when educating the public, and other legislators, on the dangers of these life-threatening devices.

Morrison will continue to advocate for measures to keep communities safe.

DEERFIELD – State Senator Julie Morrison is teaming up with the Deerfield-Bannockburn Fire Department to teach residents of all ages how they can help their friends, family, neighbors and others with emergency medical treatment before the professional paramedics arrive.

“Being equipped with basic skills to help during a medical emergency can save a life," said Morrison (D-Lake Forest).  "In the event that you should be called upon to provide assistance to someone in distress, this event is the perfect opportunity to introduce you to important life saving techniques."

The event will be held Saturday, Nov. 2 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Deerfield Bannockburn Fire Department located at 500 Waukegan Road in Deerfield. The fire department will host a number of informational stations including hands-only CPR, "Stop the Bleed," calling 911, and choking training.

The fire department will also be hosting a blood drive from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. To make an appointment to donate, click here.

“This event is special in nature as typical fire department open house events showcase the fire department’s resources,” said Chief Ian Kazian. “This event provides hands-on training by paramedics to our residents and guests of our fire district.”

The event is free and open to the public – and light refreshments will be served. People of all ages are encouraged to attend. Residents with questions can call Morrison’s office at 847-945-5200.

HIGHWOOD – State Senator Julie Morrison joined the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity in announcing $15 million in funding for the Job Training and Economic Development program, including more than $560,000 for Openlands Lakeshore Preserve in Lake County.

"Programs such as JTED play a crucial role in preparing a skilled workforce and offering opportunities to those struggling to find employment," stated Morrison (D-Lake Forest). "By delivering education, skills, and training, we not only support individuals in their long-term success but also contribute to the strength of our communities and foster a thriving economy."

The Job Training and Economic Development program provides workforce training and wraparound services to help bolster equitable workforce recovery for Illinoisans struggling to gain meaningful employment. Funds from this program aim to address the economic impacts experienced by employers and individuals who are underemployed, unemployed or underrepresented who have one or more barriers to employment that are identified as risk factors.

This is the second round of funding from the JTED program, awarding over $15 million to 33 organizations across Illinois. Openlands Lakeshore Preserve, which falls within Morrison’s district, is set to receive over $562,000 from the program.

“The continued success of the JTED program is a testament to the importance of intentional investments in Illinois’ world-class workforce,” said DCEO Director Kristin Richards. “This funding will support services to underemployed, unemployed and underrepresented communities and provide individuals access to good paying job opportunities.”

SPRINGFIELD – To help physicians meet their patients’ wishes, State Senator Julie Morrison championed a law creating a state electronic registry to store treatment preferences for critically ill individuals.

“The type of care a person desires is very personal,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “This law recognizes that everyone’s individual wishes should be a priority when it comes to health care.”

Senate Bill 2644 – signed into law last week – establishes a statewide electronic registry through the Secretary of State that will contain Physician Orders for Life Sustaining Treatment (POLST) forms, which detail what type of medical treatment a patient does and does not want. POLST forms can help health care practitioners uphold a person’s wishes regarding their care.

In the past, POLST forms could only be maintained in hard copy or electronic format. Morrison’s law establishes a single location to hold all POLST forms, making them easily accessible to qualified health care providers throughout the state.

“A statewide registry that is available to all health care institutions and providers is the best way to make POLST forms accessible when needed most,” said Dr. Julie Goldstein of the Illinois Practitioner Orders For Life-Sustaining Treatment Committee. “Access to POLST forms allows providers to honor the medical decisions of all Illinoisans.”

Senate Bill 2644 goes into effect Jan. 1, 2025.