BUFFALO GROVE – State Senator Adriane Johnson is seeking motivated, community-minded high school and college students to serve in her district office as interns.

“I want to see young people make a difference in our community while gaining valuable experience working in government,” Johnson said. “If you’re an energetic, driven student who’s interested in public service, I encourage you to apply to be a part of our team.”

Interns would take on an active role in Johnson’s office, helping plan events, assist with outreach to community organizations and local governments, and research legislative initiatives. While interns are able to choose a remote, in-person, or hybrid schedule, they may be asked to attend in-person events with the Senator when conditions allow.

The position requires a minimum commitment of five hours per week from June to August, but scheduling is flexible. Johnson’s office will work with interns seeking college credit for the internship.

Johnson’s staff is hiring interns on a rolling basis, so candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as they are able. Applicants should email Shanale Mason at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with a resume after completing the internship survey.

WAUKEGAN – Thanks to continuous support from State Senator Adriane Johnson, over $50,000 will be coming to Waukegan to boost local tourism efforts and attract visitors to drive along the historic Route 66.

“The history and attractions of Waukegan are rich,” said Johnson (D – Waukegan). “This investment in Waukegan tourism will not only attract visitors but help the local economy as well.”

Through the Illinois Travel and Tourism Grant Program, $2.9 million is being awarded to 51 grantees to support local tourism efforts. The City of Waukegan will receive $51,916 from the program, which is funded by a federal Economic Development Administration grant. The ultimate goal is to support promotional projects that increase visitation and overnight stays, thereby fueling the local economies across the state.

“I look forward to continue attracting tourists and sharing all that Waukegan has to offer,” Johnson said. “This is a win for visitors, small businesses and the community as a whole.”

To view a full list of Illinois Travel and Tourism Grant Program recipients, click here.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Adriane Johnson is leading a measure to improve access to residential treatment for youth in the care of the Department of Children and Family Services.

“It’s vital that we keep youth in care in need of residential treatment in Illinois,” said Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove). “We must work to avoid out-of-state transfers or placements that can be disruptive to those with complex behavioral and mental health medical needs long term.”

Johnson’s measure would require the Department of Children and Family Services to develop a strategic plan to improve timely access to in-state residential treatment, evidence-based alternatives to treatment, and specialized foster care for youth in care with significant behavioral health needs.

“Youth in care of DCFS deserve timely care,” said Johnson. “It is our duty as a General Assembly to uplift and support the needs of these children who are far too often forgotten.”

House Bill 439 passed the Senate Health and Human Services Committee and goes to the full Senate for further deliberation.

SPRINGFIELD – The life of Donald Stallworth, III was tragically taken too soon when an ambulance – which drove through a stop sign without its siren – struck his motorcycle. To honor his memory and ensure that no other person is injured or killed the way their son was, the parents of Mr. Stallworth stood alongside State Senator Adriane Johnson and her colleagues at a press conference Thursday to fight for change.

“The passing of this bill is very important to our family because our lives have been forever changed. We have experienced an unbelievable loss with the passing of DJ, due to such a tragic accident,” said Satrese Stallworth, Donald’s mother. “He was a beautiful, amazing, talented, and very respectful young man. We will never get to experience his greatness in this lifetime. We don’t want to see another family suffer a great loss and experience the pain we’re enduring. Pain that was inflicted upon us by the people who come to preserve and save life. This is why it’s important to incorporate this law and keep his legacy alive.” 

What would be known as the “Donald (DJ) Stallworth, III Act,” Senate Bill 1251 would require ambulances proceeding through a red light or stop sign to slow down and use both the siren and lights – signaling its presence to other drivers. Further, the measure would require ambulance drivers to have documented training of the vehicle on the proper use of warning lights and sirens and situations where those lights and sirens are warranted.

“The very duty of ambulance drivers is to help save lives – however, we can’t put the risk of other people’s lives in danger,” said Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove). “I commend Mr. and Mrs. Stallworth for their bravery and advocacy to tell their late son’s story and uplift his legacy to make adequate change.”

Senate Bill 1251 passed the Senate and is expected to be heard before the House in the coming weeks.