Morrison named majority caucus whip, chair of Senate Insurance Committee

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Julie Morrison will continue her position in Senate leadership as majority caucus whip, as well as serve as chair of the Senate Insurance Committee for the 104th General Assembly.

“Illinois has made significant strides in recent years in building stronger, safer communities,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “It is a privilege to serve as majority caucus whip this General Assembly and work alongside my colleagues in developing policies that prioritize the well-being of all Illinois residents.”

Morrison has served in the Illinois General Assembly since 2012 and as majority caucus whip since 2021. In the 103rd General Assembly, she chaired the Senate’s Health and Human Services Committee.

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Morrison supports Karina’s Law – a notable win to protect survivors of domestic violence

SPRINGFIELD – A longstanding champion of gun safety legislation – and advocate for survivors of domestic violence – State Senator Julie Morrison proudly supported a measure to ensure people with domestic violence-related restraining orders may have their firearms revoked in an appropriate amount of time.

“Karina's Law focuses on a critical, shared goal: preventing those who pose a threat from accessing firearms, while strengthening coordination between law enforcement and advocacy groups to protect domestic violence survivors,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “Protection orders must serve their intended purpose by ensuring those who pose a threat are promptly disarmed.”

House Bill 4144 – also known as Karina's Law– would strengthen firearm removal requirements when domestic violence protection orders are issued. Law enforcement agencies would be required to remove firearms from individuals due to emergency restraining orders within 96 hours of a judge’s order.

This new policy provides clear guidelines for enforcement, ensuring consistent application across the state and addressing the risks associated with firearms and domestic violence situations. The legislation follows the July 2023 deaths of Karina Gonzalez and her teenage daughter Daniela, who were allegedly killed by Gonzalez's husband shortly after obtaining a protection order against him. Under that order, no steps were taken to make sure he gave up his guns.

In domestic violence cases, a gun in the home increases the risk of homicide by 500%, according to a report from The Network – an organization advocating against domestic violence.

“Research shows domestic violence situations involving firearms present severe and potentially lethal risks to survivors,” said Morrison. “The system has long failed women in Illinois, and I am proud we stepped up to protect future survivors.”

House Bill 4144 passed the Senate Monday.

Morrison celebrates oldest living former NASA astronaut

DEERFIELD – State Senator Julie Morrison commemorated Dec. 21, 2024 as James A. Lovell Day to celebrate the Lake Forest man whose words of, “Houston, we've had a problem,” are still said daily some 54 years later. 

“James A. Lovell’s extraordinary courage and skills have left an indelible mark on human space exploration,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “His achievements have long inspired generations to dream big and persevere in the face of seemingly impossible challenges.”

Lovell is best known for his remarkable role in the Apollo 13 mission – an incredible story of survival and human resilience. In April 1970, when an oxygen tank explosion crippled their spacecraft, Lovell and his crew transformed what could have been a tragic disaster into one of the most remarkable rescue missions in history. With limited resources and facing seemingly insurmountable challenges, they navigated their damaged spacecraft back to earth.

Before Apollo 13, Lovell was already a distinguished astronaut. He was the first person to travel to the moon twice, and went on two Gemini space flights and two Apollo missions – logging 715 hours in space. Today, Lovell is the oldest living former astronaut of NASA.

“I can't think of anyone more deserving of the honor. His leadership on Apollo 13 will never be forgotten, nor will his service aboard Apollo 8,” said State Senator Steve McClure (R-Springfield), the chief cosponsor of the legislation. “Captain Lovell is an American hero, and all Illinoisans are proud that he chooses to call our great state home.”

James A. Lovell Day will be celebrated Dec. 21, 2024 across the state following the adoption of Senate Resolution 1280.

Morrison receives award from Illinois Fire Safety Alliance

LAKE FOREST – State Senator Julie Morrison received an award from the Illinois Fire Safety Alliance for her efforts to fight for increased safety against fireworks.

“As a state senator, my highest priority has always been the safety and well-being of our community,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “The ongoing battle against fireworks legalization bills is about protecting lives, property, and the peace of mind of our residents.”

Morrison was presented with the Special Recognition Award for her ongoing commitment to fires safety measures and going above and beyond as an outspoken opponent on the expansion of fireworks sales across the state of Illinois. Her passion is present when educating the public, and other legislators, on the dangers of these life-threatening devices.

Morrison will continue to advocate for measures to keep communities safe.