Johnson announces more than $1 million in grants for local parks

• Grant
• OSLAD
• Parks and recreation

BUFFALO GROVE — The City of Waukegan, Vernon Hills Park District and Mundelein Park and Recreation District have all received a $600,000 Open Space Land Acquisition and Development grant to help continue their ongoing improvements, thanks to strong support from State Senator Adriane Johnson.

“Bettering our local park districts goes far beyond beautification,” said Johnson (D- Buffalo Gove). “This funding enriches our communities, fostering health, connection, and a vibrant quality of life for all.”

As a strong advocate for local park districts and recreation development, Johnson supported funding for economically distressed communities, resulting in 29 underserved locations receiving $17.3 million in grants from the Open Space Land Acquisition and Development, or OSLAD, program.

OSLAD is a cost-sharing program between state and local governments that helps communities fund land acquisition and development for parks and outdoor recreation projects. It’s become one of the most popular grant programs in Illinois. Since its establishment, OSLAD has awarded $640 million for park projects throughout Illinois.

More than $55.2 million in state grants are being awarded for 100 local park projects throughout Illinois to help communities acquire land and develop recreational opportunities.

Visit the Illinois Department of Natural Resources website for more information on the OSLAD grants.

Johnson supports Karina’s Law to strengthen protections for domestic violence survivors

• Karina's Law
• HB 4144
• Gun-violence prevention

SPRINGFIELD – As a steadfast advocate for gun-violence prevention, State Senator Adriane Johnson proudly supported Karina’s Law, landmark legislation designed to protect domestic violence survivors by making it easier for firearms to be removed from individuals under emergency restraining orders.

“Karina’s Law is a significant step forward in safeguarding survivors of domestic violence,” said Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove). “I am proud to have supported this legislation, which provides vital protections for families across Illinois. No one should have to live in fear due to loopholes in our system.”

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Johnson highlights 30 Wonders of the 30th District: People Edition

• 30 Wonders
• 30th District

WAUKEGAN – State Senator Adriane Johnson recently highlighted the exceptional people who work, serve and live in the 30^th District with the 30 Wonders of the 30^th District: People Edition.

“The impact of each of these wonderful individuals adds value to our community,” said Johnson (D–Buffalo Grove). “It is time we acknowledge them in a way that will engage and amplify the district.”

In 2023, Johnson highlighted the wonderful landmarks that make the 30^th District such a beautiful community to live, work and raise a family. In the 2024 installation, she was able to honor and recognize the

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Johnson advances measure protecting students’ access to counseling

• Education
• Mental health
• SB 469

SPRNGFIELD – State Senator Adriane Johnson advanced a measure out of the Senate Education Committee ensuring students’ have access to counseling services regardless of citizenship status.

“Access to counseling ensures all students can succeed and are supported, regardless of their backgrounds,” said Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove). “By providing access to student counseling without barriers, schools affirm their role as inclusive and supportive environments where all students can grow and prevail.”

Senate Bill 469 would make clarifying changes to ensure all students would be served by school counselors regardless of their citizenship status. Research shows that students with access to effective school

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