Morrison measure to increase resources for gambling disorders passes Senate

SPRINGFIELD – The prevalence of gambling is on the rise and with it has come an increase in addictive gambling behaviors. State Senator Julie Morrison passed legislation to provide prevention, treatment and recovery services for people who experience problem gambling.

“Like many drugs, gambling activates an addictive part of our brain,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “People who struggle with a gambling disorder deserve the same help and treatment as someone with a drug dependency.”

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Morrison passes measure to enhance EMT training

SPRINGFIELD – To increase efficiency in emergency response, State Senator Julie Morrison led a measure through the Senate to outline training on how to access the medical ID function within health apps on cellphones.

“With the majority of people having a cell phone on them at all times, it’s easy for people 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.”

With few excluded, cell phones have a health app where a user can enter pertinent information to help emergency response services in the event the user is unresponsive or otherwise unable to report healthcare needs during a medical emergency. Morrison’s measure would outline training to teach EMS personnel and law enforcement how to access this information on a person’s phone.

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Morrison plan to protect nursing home residents passes Senate

SPRINGFIELD – To ensure nursing home residents receive proper care during ownership changes, State Senator Julie Morrison passed legislation that would require facilities to develop comprehensive transition plans.

“Quality of care for nursing home residents should not be disrupted because of an unclear transition process,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “By providing a clear transfer plan when nursing homes change ownership, we can increase protection for residents.”

Senate Bill 3115 would require owners of nursing facilities to submit transition plans detailing how resident care and appropriate staffing levels will be maintained throughout the process of changing ownership. 

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Morrison measure to expand cancer screening coverage passes Senate

SPRINGFIELD – Cancer is a serious disease that touches most lives in one way or another. State Senator Julie Morrison passed a measure through the Senate to require insurance companies to cover preventative cancer screenings and genetic testing for individuals with a family history or increased risk of cancer.

“Like so many others, cancer has impacted me and my family,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “This legislation will increase rates of survival by prioritizing prevention and early detection.”

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