SPRINGFIELD — To better protect children during their daily commutes to school, State Senator Julie Morrison passed a new law requiring seat belts in all newly purchased school buses beginning in 2031 — a move that aligns Illinois with national safety trends and growing efforts to keep students safe on the road.

“Many bus manufacturers are already moving toward including seat belts as a standard feature,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “This law makes sure Illinois is keeping pace with national safety recommendations and placing students’ well-being at the center of our decisions.”

Under the new law, all school buses purchased or leased after July 1, 2031 and registered in Illinois will be required to have three-point seat belts on all seats. Currently, drivers and passengers ages 8 and older are required to wear seat belts in passenger vehicles, but there is no requirement for using safety belts on buses.

SPRINGFIELD — With increasing threats to public health emerging from the intersection of human, animal and environmental factors, a new law spearheaded by State Senator Julie Morrison will create the One Health Commission — a unique collaboration among Illinois experts to improve communication and coordination across fields.

“This law addresses a gap in how our state responds to complex health threats,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “By bringing experts together through the One Health Commission, Illinois will be better equipped to plan for and respond to outbreaks before they become widespread emergencies.”

The new law establishes the One Health Commission within the Illinois Department of Public Health that will promote collaboration among physicians, veterinarians and other scientific professionals. The commission will work closely with state agencies to recommend best practices to promote interdisciplinary communication, establish methods for the response to and recovery from disease outbreaks in animals and humans and develop ways to monitor emerging health threats, among other responsibilities. A report of recommendations will be submitted to the governor and General Assembly by Jan. 1, 2028.

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 is addressing through a new law that will help more Illinois military families access food benefits.

“Service to our country should be met with not just words, but with action and real support,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “This law takes a step toward ensuring veterans and military families do not have to choose between their paying bills or putting food on the table.”

The new law raises the income level at which households with a veteran or member of the Armed Forces are eligible for benefits through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

LAKE FOREST — State Senator Julie Morrison is encouraging community organizations, schools and industry groups to apply for grants through the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program, which helps open doors for individuals pursuing careers in the construction and building trades.

“Pre-apprenticeship programs are smart investments in our state’s workforce,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “At a time when labor shortages are felt across many industries, these grants will help close the skills gap and connect more people to high-demand, high-wage jobs.”

The latest round of funding includes $25 million to support pre-apprenticeship programs that aim to increase diversity and create pathways for underrepresented groups in the construction industry, including women, veterans and people of color. The program offers comprehensive, tuition-free training and certifications, along with supportive services to help individuals gain entry to apprenticeships and ultimately secure stable, well-paying careers.

Eligible applicants include nonprofits, chambers of commerce, community colleges, technical schools and school districts, among others. Grants will range from $150,000 to $550,000, with applications accepted until Aug. 31.

For more information, visit the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity’s website.