SPRINGFIELD, IL – State Senator Julie Morrison (D-Deerfield) is sponsoring Senate Bill 1440 to protect the state's investment in the Illinois Poison Center (IPC), the nation's oldest poison center.

“Poison control centers help keep families safe," Morrison said.  “I am proud to support legislation that keeps these centers open in Illinois.”

The IPC, one of the busiest poison centers in the nation, is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year. In 2012, the IPC handled nearly 82,000 calls from across the state, with close to 49% of those calls involving children five years of age and under. The IPC's expert staff comprised of specially-trained pharmacists, nurses and physicians provides free, confidential treatment advice and information 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

SPRINGFIELD, IL – State Senator Julie Morrison (D-Deerfield) is seeking interns to work in her Deerfield district office.  There are currently two positions available.

“This is an excellent opportunity for young people interested in government to gain firsthand experience in public service,” Morrison said.

Interns will have the opportunity to work directly with Senator Morrison on issues affecting the district and the state.  Responsibilities include assisting in constituent services, conducting policy research, event planning, drafting correspondence and project development.  

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois State Senate voted today to pass two bills dealing with child safety first introduced by State Senator Julie Morrison (D–Deerfield). 

The first measure allows the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) to conduct background checks for non-licensed service providers and volunteers.  The second measure updates DCFS background check regulations to keep up with federal standards concerning criminal background checks for workers in child services. 

“This legislation allows DCFS to make sure that everyone working with children has been properly vetted,” Morrison said. “It brings us in line with federal standards and keeps our children safe. I will continue to focus on our children’s welfare throughout my time as a Senator.”

SPRINGFIELD, IL – Illinois State Senator Julie Morrison (D–Deerfield) will not be enrolling in the state’s pension plan.  Along with 21 other state legislators, Senator Morrison has decided to opt-out of Illinois’ troubled pension system.

As highlighted in a recent Chicago Tribune editorial, Morrison has decided to set an example and forgo the state-subsidized retirement plan.

“I have discussed the need to reform our state’s troubled pension system before,” Senator Morrison said. “This demonstrates my determination to seek positive solutions to the Pension shortfalls.”