Morrison outlines education, community priorities after budget address

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Julie Morrison (D-Lake Forest), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, released the following statement after the governor outlined his Fiscal Year 2026 budget proposal:

“Illinois faces uncertainty in the year ahead, but we are reminded of our state’s ability to stand firm and adapt to changing conditions. As we navigate tough budget decisions, growing costs and fluid federal funding, we recognize that this is not only a financial plan but a moral document, guiding our priorities and reflecting our state’s values. This process will require belt-tightening to ensure we continue to support critical needs while managing spending responsibly.

“While each year presents unique circumstances, my priorities remain clear: protecting investments in education and maintaining support for our most vulnerable communities. I appreciate the governor’s pragmatic approach to the FY 26 proposal, and I remain optimistic that we will negotiate a final budget that safeguards funding for essential and social services.

“In the coming months, the General Assembly will review every line of spending to ensure we’re upholding our commitments to Illinois families and keeping the state on a path of financial stability. I stand ready to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to craft a responsible spending plan.”

Morrison: Integrity the foundation of public service

CHICAGO — State Senator Julie Morrison (D-Lake Forest) issued the following statement after a verdict was reached in the trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan:

“Today we are reminded that integrity must be at the foundation of public service. As lawmakers, our duty is to work in the best interest of the people — not ourselves. We are entrusted with the responsibility to place ethics above power and profit.

“It is time to turn the page on corruption in the statehouse. For years, I have championed ethics reform legislation to strengthen transparency and accountability within our state government. The people of Illinois expect credibility, trust and honesty from their elected officials, and they deserve nothing less.”

Morrison recognized by Illinois Association of Park Districts

CHICAGO — State Senator Julie Morrison received the Illinois Outstanding Legislator of the Year Award from the Illinois Association of Park Districts at their annual conference this month.

“Parks are for everyone — creating recreational opportunities for children and adults alike,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “The IAPD is instrumental in advocating for recreation opportunities and natural resources within our state, and I look forward to future collaboration to make more accessible open spaces a reality.”

Morrison was recognized for her support of legislation promoting park districts, forest preserves, and recreation and conservation agencies across Illinois. She has been a longtime advocate for Illinois parks and continues to support park districts throughout the state through initiatives like the Open Space Land Acquisition and Development grant program.

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Morrison lauds investment in Fortune Brands Innovations’ expanded Deerfield headquarters

DEERFIELD — Building on Illinois’ commitment to expand job creation and support capital investment throughout the state, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity announced the expansion of Fortune Brands Innovations headquarters in Deerfield.

“The State of Illinois’ business attraction incentives are stronger than ever under Governor Pritzker’s leadership,” said State Senator Julie Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “EDGE incentives are supporting Fortune Brands Innovations’ HQ expansion in Deerfield, and I’m proud to see this innovative company poised for continued growth as it creates and retains hundreds of good-paying jobs.”

Fortune Brands Innovations — an industry leader in creating home products under brands such as Moen, Larson, SentrySafe and Master Lock — will consolidate and streamline its U.S. divisional headquarters operations into a single global headquarters in Deerfield, creating at least 400 new full-time jobs.

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