Morrison: Vote-by-mail simplifies people’s right to vote

SPRINGFIELD — As Illinois’ date to choose the nominees for a new U.S. president at the ballot box was on the horizon, the worry of low voter turnout due to the coronavirus pandemic loomed in the background. 
 

“Illinoisans had to choose between keeping themselves healthy or casting their vote,” State Senator Julie Morrison (D-Lake Forest) said.
 
That worry turned into a reality Tuesday, after some counties throughout the state saw turnouts 20% lower than during previous presidential primaries. In Sangamon County, the turnout was 22.2% — before counting mail-in ballots — compared to the 43.4% turnout in 2016.
 
The case was similar in Chicago, where the turnout was only about 35%. Suburban Cook and the collar counties saw the same truncated numbers. 
 
“People simply didn’t want to risk going out and catching the virus,” Morrison said. “Others were willing to take the chance but didn’t know where their polling place was due to last minute changes. We wouldn’t have seen low turnouts if more people could vote from the comfort and safety of their own homes.”
 
Senator Morrison (D-Lake Forest) will soon file a measure to further expand Illinois’ vote-by-mail program. Illinoisans would have the option to forego traditional polling places and cast their ballot from the comfort of their home. Under the proposal, each registered voter would be mailed a ballot, which would then be returned to the county elections office and counted on Election Day.
 
However, this does not preclude in-person voting opportunities on and/or before Election Day.
 
Morrison’s vote-by-mail measure will be based on similar protocols in Oregon, Colorado and Washington state. 
 
Washington — which is home of one of the largest coronavirus outbreaks in the country — held its primary a week before Illinois. Yet, because all its voting is done by mail, people were able to cast their ballot without putting their health and safety in jeopardy. 
 
“The situation we are seeing throughout the country during one of the most important elections to date is further proof it is time for Illinois to expand its vote-by-mail program,” Morrison said. “It adds simplicity to people’s right to vote and will boost turnout numbers.”
 
According to a 2016 study of Colorado, funded by the Pew Charitable Trusts and published by the National Conference of State Legislators, because of convenience, turnout increases. Statewide turnout in Colorado grew from 51.7% in 2010 to 54.7% in 2014 after implementing vote-by-mail. 
 
The bill will be read into the record when legislators return to Springfield. 

Morrison encourages people to donate to local food pantries

• The Shields Pantry, 906 Muir Avenue, Lake Bluff: Donations may be made by calling 847-234-0802.

• Northfield Township Food Pantry, 2550 Waukegan Road, Suite 100, Glenview: The pantry is asking for financial donations that will be used to provide additional resources and food to its clients. Please visit spatpta.memberhub.store/shopping/items/112947 to donate or mail a check to the above address.

• Wheeling Township Food Pantry, 616 N. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights: The most needed items at the moment are beverages, jelly, peanut butter, vegetables and white rice. Please call 847-259-7730 to arrange a drop off.

• Moraine Township Food Pantry, 800 Central Avenue, Highland Park: Drop offs are accepted. Please leave groceries on the table outside. The most needed include oatmeal, canned fruit, cereal, mac & cheese and tuna. The pantry is also accepting direct donations to keep it stocked. Donations can be made by visiting www.morainetownship.org/super/pantry.html.

• West Deerfield Township Food Pantry: 601 Deerfield Road, Deerfield: The pantry is in need of non-perishable food items and personal hygiene items. It is closed to the public; however, donors may put their donations in a cart found outside the door.

Sen. Julie Morrison: How state agencies are helping during this difficult time

Senator Morrison announces free tax assistance

SPRINGFIELD – The deadline to file taxes is around the corner and State Senator Julie Morrison (D-Lake Forest) is urging people in need of financial assistance and the elderly to take advantage of free tax preparation programs.

“Tax season can be stressful, especially for people who cannot afford to have their taxes filed by a professional,” Morrison said. “The free programs will give people the peace of mind to know their taxes were done accurately, without worrying about paying hundreds of dollars for the service.”

A number of communities in the north suburbs have opportunities for free tax preparation for elderly and low income families.

Every Friday from now until April 10, eligible people can get their taxes prepared and filed for free at the Deerfield Turner Center, located at 375 Elm Street. You must make an appointment by calling 847-940-4010.

Moraine Township is also hosting free tax filing for those with household incomes of $55,000 or less. Call 847-780-6644 to schedule an appointment.

There are dozens of other areas in the community that offer similar assistance. AARP’s Foundation Tax-Aide program – which is open to non-members – helps those with low-to-moderate income with their taxes. Locations for the program can be found here.

Additionally, the IRS offers income tax assistance and tax counseling for individuals making $56,000 or less, people with disabilities, taxpayers who speak limited English and individuals 60 years of age or older. To find a location, click here.

Federal and state income taxes must be filed by April 15.