SPRINGFIELD – As COVID-19 vaccine distribution continues, Senator Julie Morrison (D-Lake Forest) and her colleagues have fielded hundreds of questions and concerns from people across the state about the rollout, leading her to schedule a hearing to help get to the bottom of the confusing process and call for a more comprehensive and timely plan.

“The COVID-19 vaccine is the greatest line of defense we have against the pandemic,” Morrison said. “Unfortunately, many people across the state who are eligible for the vaccine haven’t been able to get their dose – and that’s disheartening. I hope this hearing will lead us toward a path of greater efficiency.” 

Senator Morrison will be joined by representatives from the Illinois Department of Public Health, Sangamon County Health Department, Chicago Department of Public Health, George Miller Safety Net Hospital, Walgreens and CVS — among others. 

The hearing will focus on frequently asked questions and concerns regarding the rollout and supply of the COVID-19 vaccine. Morrison hopes the conversation will help distribution become more convenient and readily available.

WHO: Senate Health Committee, IDPH Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike, local health departments and pharmacies that administer the vaccine

WHAT: Subject matter hearing on COVID-19 vaccine

WHERE: The virtual hearing can be viewed here: https://ilga.gov/senateaudvid.asp#. Blue Room Stream, a subscription-based service, will also stream the hearing.

WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 11 at noon

Additional witnesses can submit written testimony online at www.ilga.gov.

To watch the virtual committee, visit https://ilga.gov/senateaudvid.asp and click "Watch Live Virtual Committee Video." The link will be available at noon.

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Julie Morrison (D-Lake Forest) is honored to be named majority caucus whip and to serve as chair of the Health Committee during the 102nd General Assembly. 

“Senate President Don Harmon has led our caucus — and the entire Senate — with immense poise and leadership,” Morrison said. “I am honored he trusts me to serve as the majority caucus whip.”

Senator Morrison has served in the Illinois General Assembly since 2012 — but this is the first year she’s served in leadership. 

Morrison is also pleased to chair the Health Committee. She previously served as chair of the Health and Human Services Committee, and sat on the local government, environment and conservation, public health, oversight Medicaid managed care, and transportation committees. 

“My number one passion is ensuring all people are valued and treated with human dignity,” Morrison said. “Through the position as Health Committee Chair, I am able to help protect and empower our state’s most vulnerable populations, who already struggle with too few resources.” 

HIGHWOOD  — To show some love to many older adults who have been secluded from their loved ones for nearly a year, State Senator Julie Morrison (D-Lake Forest) is collecting cards to give to people living in long-term care facilities. 

“Sending someone who has been secluded for so long a card could give them a boost of joy and happiness they need right now,” Morrison said. “Please help us deliver smiles.” 

Senator Morrison will collect store-bought or hand-made cards at her district office from now until Feb. 10. The cards will then be donated to a number of long-term care facilities across the district she represents. 

People wishing to participate can drop off cards at an outside collection box or mail them to the following address: 

Senator Julie Morrison

43 Highwood Avenue

Highwood, IL 60040

For those choosing to deliver cards in person, Senator Morrison reminds everyone to maintain social distancing and to wear a mask if entering the building.

HIGHWOOD —As the COVID-19 vaccine starts to make its way to Illinois, State Senator Julie Morrison (D-Lake Forest) is encouraging Lake County Residents to register to be notified when the vaccine is available. 

“The health and safety of Lake County residents is the No. 1 priority,” Morrison said. “I’m pleased a vaccination plan is being spearheaded by our local health department and being lead by experts and scientists.”

The Lake County Health Department announced the creation of the Lake County AllVax Portal Wednesday — which allows Lake County residents to register to be notified when a COVID-19 vaccine is available to them. 

Registration is quick and easy, simply requiring residents to enter basic information and answer a few screening questions. Once registered, people will be notified when the vaccine is available and given the chance to schedule their vaccination appointments through the Lake County clinics and other facilities. The portal also includes answers to frequently asked questions on COVID-19 vaccination.

Initial vaccine supply will be limited, so groups of people who are at higher risk — either due to their wellbeing or job — will be the first people eligible for the vaccination. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is helping state and local health departments distribute the vaccine fairly. 

“The portal — and eventually distribution of the vaccine — will help us protect our communities and begin to return to normalcy,” Morrison said. “Do your part for the community and register today.” 

To register, people can visit AllVax.lakecohealth.org or call the Lake County Health Department at 847-377-8130.