Morrison to improve early diagnosis of fatal pediatric disease

SPRINGFIELD – Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy – also known as DMD – is a rare disorder, but severe if not caught early enough to be treated. State Senator Julie Morrison introduced a bill that would require all newborns to be screened for DMD.

“Although rare, DMD is a devastating disease – often taking children from their parents around the age of 5,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “Early diagnoses of DMD will save precious lives and restore hope.”

By the time the symptoms of DMD are detected, it is typically too late to treat. Additionally, it takes 2.5 years on average to diagnose after caregivers first notice symptoms – giving children little to no time to receive help. Senate Bill 2658 would require each newborn to be screened for the disease, giving those diagnosed the ability to receive affective treatment.

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Morrison advocates for health app training for first responders

SPRINGFIELD – To increase efficiency in emergency response, State Senator Julie Morrison’s new measure outlines training on how to access the medical ID function within health apps on cellphones.

“Almost everyone has a cellphone on them at all times, which makes it easy for them to have their own digital medical ID,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “This measure will help first responders keep up with technology and use this feature to save lives.”

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Morrison to increase the safety of cheer teams

SPRINGFIELD – Student’s safety while participating in a sport is a concern for many parents. To ensure safe practices are being followed at schools across the state, State Senator Julie Morrison advanced a measure to increase safety for cheerleaders.

“While sports provide students with vital life skills and a sense of belonging, they can also present an increased risk of injury,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “Improving enforcement and knowledge of cheer and spirit safety standards will help prevent future injuries.”

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Morrison to protect wildlife from unnecessary disturbances

SPRINGFIELD – Private drones flown over public parks and protected wildlife has created the need for regulation. State Senator Julie Morrison introduced a measure which would empower local government to implement rules on the use of airspace.

“I am proud to represent a district with an abundance of parks and wildlife,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “This legislation, brought to me by the Cook County Forest Preserve and the Illinois Association of Park Districts, will secure the sanctity and longevity of beautiful outdoor spaces.”

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