Johnson advances measure to enhance water quality of Lake Michigan

• Environment
• Water
• Lake Michigan

SPRINGFIELD – A measure advanced by State Senator Adriane Johnson seeks to enhance existing Illinois Environmental Protection Agency tasks by requiring regular monitoring of water quality from nearshores, harbors and public water supply intakes in Lake Michigan.

“It is imperative that we streamline the process to ensure the quality of water is being maintained,” said Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove). “Preserving the integrity of our beaches and water supply is essential.”

Senate Bill 3716 would update an existing provision to ensure that the IEPA is regularly monitoring water quality from nearshores, harbors and public water supply intakes in Lake Michigan and to provide an executive summary every two years on conditions of the water quality in Lake Michigan to the governor and General Assembly. This update further aligns Illinois with the federal Clean Water Act. 

“Protecting water quality is not just about safeguarding our environment; it’s also about securing a brighter future for generations to come,” said Johnson. “Every drop of water sustains life and vitality.”

Senate Bill 3716 passed the Senate Environment and Conservation Committee and moves to the floor for further consideration.

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Johnson acknowledges Rare Disease Day

• Public Health

SPRINGFIELD –State Senator Adriane Johnson named March 6, 2024 as Rare Disease Day in Illinois.

“People with rare diseases often face two battles: the disease itself and the lack of understanding from people around them,” said Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove). “It is time we bring more awareness and education to rare diseases and how we can help and uplift those suffering.

Senate Resolution 726 declares March 6, 2024 as Rare Disease Day in order to raise awareness and highlight the need for research and funding to support the discovery and development of therapies designed to treat or potentially cure these rare diseases. Nearly 30 million Americans are affected by rare diseases, half of whom are children.

“We must not only bring more awareness to rare diseases, but continue to fight for increased research and funding to help tackle the issue head on,” said Johnson. “This Rare Disease Day, I encourage you to learn more about the struggles many of our neighbors face and how you can advocate for change.”

Senate Resolution 726 passed the Senate Wednesday.

Johnson to host meeting on Vista Medical East trauma center

• Public Health
• Vista Medical Center East

WAUKEGAN – State Senator Adriane Johnson is hosting a meeting with State Representative Rita Mayfield regarding Vista Medical Center East in Waukegan losing its trauma center designation, causing people with serious injuries to have to be transported to hospitals more than 20 minutes away.

“I have been working to ensure that we create substantial solutions to the issue regarding Vista Medical Center East’s trauma center designation,” said Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove). “This revocation will greatly impact residents – both patients and employees alike – and it is imperative that we intervene.”

The meeting will take place on Saturday, March 9 from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the Patricia A. Jones Center located at Park Place, 414 S. Lewis Ave. in Waukegan. This meeting is open to the public and also available virtually via Zoom, linked here.

For more information, residents can contact Johnson’s office at (847) 672-6201.

Johnson continues Self-care Saturdays

• Waukegan
• Mental health
• Community

WAUKEGAN – State Senator Adriane Johnson is uniting with State Representative Rita Mayfield in hosting a Self-Care Health Fair to kick off a six-month-long initiative to provide affordable mental health resources to local residents.

“We had a successful turnout for our Self-Care Health fair, ensuring residents are aware of the resources available in our backyard,” said Johnson (D – Buffalo Grove). “This vital six-month long community service project will continue to connect residents with free therapy services from licensed professionals.”

Licensed therapists will be present March 2 from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. to provide counsel and resources to the public at the Eleanor Murkey Community Center of College of Lake County, located at 34 N. Sheridan Rd., Waukegan.

People seeking therapy do not need to make an appointment. Licensed therapists interested in volunteering are encouraged to sign up here.

“There is an increase in need for mental health care, yet many people are unable to afford therapy,” said Johnson. “In hosting the Self-Care Saturdays, we are able to bring awareness and resources to those who need it most.”

Johnson’s office is available to answer questions by calling 847-672-6201 or visiting her website.