Morrison’s bill expanding veteran food benefits passes Senate
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SPRINGFIELD — After serving their country, many veterans grapple with securing their next meal — a reality State Senator Julie Morrison is working to address through legislation that would allow more Illinois military families to access federal food benefits.
“Food insecurity is a real issue affecting veterans throughout the state, including in the 29th District,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “We cannot stand by as those who dedicated their time and safety to defend us go hungry.”
Senate Bill 32 would raise the income level at which households with a veteran or member of the Armed Forces would be eligible for benefits through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. Under current law, households without seniors or individuals with disabilities must have a gross income at or below 165% of the federal poverty guidelines — for a family of four, this would be a monthly income limit of $4,290 for Fiscal Year 2025. Morrison’s bill proposes raising this threshold to 200% of the poverty level for veterans and military families, which would bring the monthly income limit to $5,200.
Morrison leads effort to expand protections for highway workers
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SPRINGFIELD — When drivers neglect to move over for emergency personnel and roadside incidents, they put lives at risk. Recognizing the need for improved safety measures, State Senator Julie Morrison advanced an initiative to enhance protections for those working on and assisting along our highways.
“Police officers directing traffic, highway maintenance workers clearing debris and kind bystanders who stop to lend a hand all deserve to know they are safe at the scene,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “This legislation is about better protecting those who put themselves at risk to help others.”
Morrison’s bill comes in response to an accident in which a local resident working for the Illinois Tollway was struck by a vehicle while assisting someone in an emergency situation. Under current law, a driver is required to change lanes, reduce speed and proceed with caution when approaching a stopped emergency vehicle with flashing lights. However, individuals who are not stationary — such as those assisting stalled drivers or traveling slowly in a vehicle to place traffic cones — are not covered under existing legal protections.
Morrison bill targets drug linked to overdose deaths
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SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Julie Morrison is spearheading efforts to tackle the rise in dangerous synthetic drug abuse in Illinois by classifying xylazine — a powerful animal tranquilizer often mixed with fentanyl — as a controlled substance while protecting legal veterinary usage.
“Too many families have lost loved ones to synthetic opioid usage, and xylazine is making these drugs even deadlier,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “This bill reflects a proactive step in addressing a crisis that touches every corner of our state.”
Senate Bill 1773 would update the state’s controlled substance classifications to better address emerging drug trends, such as the mixing of fentanyl and xylazine. The bill, an initiative of the Illinois State Police, aims to provide law enforcement with more effective tools to combat the evolving challenges posed by illicit drug use. It would categorize xylazine as a Schedule III controlled substance and clear up legal definitions to align Illinois law with federal standards, preventing loopholes that could put people at risk.
Morrison-supported legislation targets plastic bag pollution
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SPRINGFIELD — Plastic pollution is a widespread issue in the Great Lakes region, with an estimated 11 million pounds of plastic entering Lake Michigan alone each year. To help reduce the volume of single-use plastic items, State Senator Julie Morrison is supporting efforts to eliminate plastic bags at Illinois retailers.
“Plastic doesn’t go away — it breaks into smaller pieces that end up in our water sources, wildlife and eventually, our bodies,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest), whose district borders Lake Michigan. “This plastic accumulation creates a sustained environmental and health hazard that needs to be addressed.”
Senate Bill 1872 would prohibit retailers from offering single-use plastic bags beginning Jan. 1, 2029. Businesses would be allowed to offer customers the option to purchase recycled paper bags for 10 cents per bag. Restaurants, gas stations under 5,000 square feet, and small businesses with 12 or fewer locations in Illinois employing 250 or fewer employees would be exempt from the plastic bag ban.
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Welcome to my legislative website! I am proud to serve as the State Senator from Illinois' 29th District, representing portions of the North Suburbs of Chicago in Lake and Cook Counties.
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Julie Morrison
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