Morrison outlines plan to strengthen state’s response to human trafficking

SPRINGFIELD — To improve how the state identifies and supports victims of human trafficking, State Senator Julie Morrison joined the director of Illinois State Police, state agency representatives and a trafficking survivor at a press conference Wednesday to outline her bipartisan proposal to streamline services among agencies.

“Human trafficking is a horrific crime that too often goes unrecognized,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “This legislation is the result of years of collaboration aimed at strengthening efforts to identify individuals who are being exploited and enhancing support for survivors in their recovery.”

Senate Bill 2323 works to address human trafficking in Illinois through a victim-centered, trauma-informed approach. Based on recommendations from the Joint Human Trafficking Working Group — formed in 2023 with input from over 60 stakeholders and state agencies — the bill would establish a strategic plan to build a network of services for trafficking survivors, including the creation of standards of care for medical and legal service providers.

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Morrison fights for veterans’ food security

SPRINGFIELD — Despite dedicating their time and safety to serve our country, over 11% of veterans face food insecurity in the U.S. — an issue State Senator Julie Morrison looks to remedy through legislation that will help more Illinois military families access food benefits.

“I’ve seen veterans in my district who are forced to rely on food pantries because their household doesn’t qualify for SNAP benefits,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “Veterans served our state and our nation — they should be able to access the resources they need to live comfortably.”

Morrison’s measure, 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. Senate Bill 32 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.

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Morrison: Highland Park community continues path toward healing

HIGHLAND PARK — State Senator Julie Morrison (D-Lake Forest) and several of her family members and volunteers were in Highland Park’s 2022 Fourth of July parade when the shooting began. Following the news that Robert Crimo III pleaded guilty to the mass shooting that left seven dead, she issued the below statement:

“Today our community continues the long path toward healing. While no legal outcome can erase our collective pain and trauma, this guilty plea spares victims and their families from reliving this tragic day. My heart is with those who were prepared to share their stories in the name of justice.

“Senseless gun violence cannot be our normal way of life. No one should live in fear — in their homes, out celebrating with their community or while going to school. We must continue to fight for legislation that keeps weapons out of the wrong hands.”

Morrison calls for collaborative approach to public health

SPRINGFIELD — With more than 60% of infectious diseases in humans originating from animals, State Senator Julie Morrison is working to address public health challenges in Illinois through improved collaboration between health care professionals, veterinarians and environmental experts.

“The well-being of people, animals and our environment are all interconnected,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “Through improved communication and collaboration among agencies, we can more effectively prevent and address health risks across the state.”

Senate Bill 291 would establish a One Health Framework Task Force within the Illinois Department of Public Health charged with developing a strategic plan to promote collaboration among physicians, veterinarians and other scientific professionals. The task force would work closely with state agencies to advance health initiatives that benefit both humans and animals, and submit a report of recommendations to the governor and General Assembly by Jan. 1, 2027.

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