Morrison to host community blood drive

LAKE FOREST – To help address widespread blood shortages, State Senator Julie Morrison will host a blood drive on March 26. 

“Blood donations have been critically low at a time when they are needed more than ever,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “If you are able, I encourage you to join me and donate – it could save a life.”

The blood drive is in partnership with Versiti Blood Center of Illinois. It will take place on March 26 from 1:30-6 p.m. at the Indian Trails Library located at 355 Schoenbeck Rd. in Wheeling. Every donation will save up to three lives and donors will receive a pint of ice cream as a thank you. Donors are encouraged to eat a healthy meal and drink plenty of water before donating.

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Morrison to increase resources for gambling disorders

SPRINGFIELD – Access to gambling is on the rise and with it has come an increase in addictive gambling behaviors. State Senator Julie Morrison introduced legislation to provide prevention, treatment and recovery services for gambling disorders.

“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 to protect kids from harmful effects of nicotine

SPRINGFIELD – Nicotine companies marketing to kids is nothing new but now they’re creating vapes that are designed to appear to be school supplies, like a highlighter. State Senator Julie Morrison introduced a measure to prevent these products from being sold.

“The dangerous and addictive nature of nicotine consumption is the reason I have taken a strong stand on this issue,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “We should do everything in our power to make it impossible for children to obtain and conceal tobacco products.”

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Morrison advances plan to protect nursing home residents

SPRINGFIELD – To ensure nursing home residents receive proper care during ownership changes, State Senator Julie Morrison advanced legislation requiring 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). “This legislation requires transfer plans from current owners to new owners and increases protection for residents.”

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

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