Morrison law to require better preparation to treat students with epilepsy

• Education
• Public Health
• HB 1475
• Child Safety

SPRINGFIELD – Students with epilepsy will be better protected at school under a new law signed today by Gov. JB Pritzker and sponsored by State Senator Julie Morrison (D-Deerfield).

“Nationwide, 470,000 children are affected by epilepsy. As children spend a large part of their day in the classroom, it is imperative schools are prepared to handle the unique set of health care needs of these students,” Morrison said.

Morrison’s new law – contained in House Bill 1475 – creates the Seizure Smart School Act, which would require the development of a plan for students with epilepsy that includes training for employees and care aides on how to handle students with the disorder.

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Morrison announces $61 million for overhaul of Lake Bluff interchange

• Lake Bluff
• Rebuild Illinois
• Transportation

LAKE BLUFF - A long-planned upgrade to the interchange at Illinois Route 176 and U.S. Route 41 in Lake Bluff is closer to completion after State Senator Julie Morrison (D-Deerfield) announced today that $61 million for the project has been secured in the recently signed Rebuild Illinois capital construction plan.

"For years, commuters on this highly traveled stretch of roadway have faced delays and safety hazards," Morrison said. "Working with local officials, it was clear this project would greatly enhance travel safety in the area and I am proud to have fought for its inclusion in the Rebuild Illinois program."

Included in the more than $40 billion infrastructure plan investing in roads, bridges and mass transit is $61 million for a complete overhaul of the Lake Bluff interchange. The project will improve safety for motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians and support future growth at the gateway to Lake Bluff through access and drainage improvements.

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Supreme Court ruling makes case for state action on redistricting reform

• Supreme Court
• Elections
• Redistricting Reform
• SJRCA 4

DEERFIELD – State Senator Julie Morrison (D-Deerfield) is renewing her push for redistricting reform in Illinois after suffering a setback last week from the U.S. Supreme Court.

“The recent ruling by the Supreme Court shows the important role states play in ensuring our redistricting process is fair, transparent and free from political influence,” Morrison said. “I remain determined to ensure that Illinois will reform the way legislative districts are drawn.”

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Illinois raises age to purchase tobacco to 21

• Tobacco 21
• Public Health
• HB 345

SPRINGFIELD – Legislation sponsored by State Senator Julie Morrison (D-Deerfield) that raises the age to legally purchase tobacco to 21 takes effect today.

“Throughout this entire process, our number one goal has been to reduce smoking rates in our teenage population,” said Morrison. “Raising the age has been proven to do just that. I am proud Illinois is a leader in protecting teenage health and reducing health care complications and premature death.”

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