BUFFALO GROVE – To ensure the voices of every generation are heard, State Senator Adriane Johnson is introducing a Youth Advisory Board and a Senior Advisory Board, which will be accepting applications through March 10.

“The purpose of these boards is to amplify the voices of people throughout the 30th District,” said Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove). “My hope is that these groups will allow people to feel empowered to speak up, brainstorm solutions and ultimately build a better community.”

Members of each of Johnson’s advisory boards will meet monthly to discuss community issues that are important to them and how she can use her position as a senator to better serve both older and younger generations. The boards will be made up of seniors over the age of 55, and students from local high schools and colleges.

People interested in getting involved in state government and having their voice heard should apply for a position no later than March 10. This class of members will hold their positions until March 2025.

“Advisory boards are a great opportunity to have your voice heard and impact legislation,” said Johnson. “The best legislation is often inspired by intentional conversations within the community.”

Students interested in applying can visit https://forms.gle/qZ1uzHL2mspVMKx18.

Interested seniors are encouraged to visit https://forms.gle/NBX92YXtBxNSedxX8.

People can call Johnson’s office at 847-672-6201 with questions.

BUFFALO GROVE – In an effort to express and share kindness with seniors in the 30th District, State Senator Adriane Johnson invites residents of all ages to get creative and donate homemade or store-bought valentines.

“A moment of kindness can really make someone’s day,” said Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove). “I encourage residents of all ages to donate or make a homemade card to brighten a local senior’s Valentine’s Day.”

Johnson’s office will collect Valentine’s Day cards from now until Friday, Feb. 9 at 4 p.m. The cards will then be donated to local senior facilities across the 30th Senate District. Those wishing to participate can drop off cards at Johnson’s office or mail them to her office at 149 S. Genesee St. Waukegan, IL 60085

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

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Adriane Johnson’s law to ensure children with behavioral and mental health needs in DCFS’s care get timely access to essential treatment went into effect Monday, Jan. 1.

“It is our responsibility to ensure the well-being of our youth is prioritized,” said Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove). “This law reflects our dedication to encouraging a supportive and nurturing environment for every child’s growth and development.”

Johnson’s law requires DCFS 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 with significant behavioral health needs.

According to the Illinois Department of Human Services, Illinois has only 13.8 behavioral health care professionals for every 10,000 residents. The erosion of the mental health care network in Illinois has a significant impact on access to care, increasing the length of hospitalization in emergency wards and raising the cost for families of youth with complex intellectual and developmental disabilities. Most severely, it can lead to the willing relinquishment of a child into DCFS custody in order to secure psychiatric care.

“We’re ensuring that vulnerable children receive the necessary support without undue delay,” said Johnson. “By prioritizing swift access to vital services, we aim to break down barriers, prevent crises and offer these young individuals a better chance at a successful, healthier future.”

House Bill 439 went into effect Jan. 1.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Adriane Johnson led a law to allow people with previous felony convictions to serve as an executor of someone else’s estate if expressly named, which went into effect Monday, Jan. 1.

“We are taking a vital step to restore dignity and honor to families throughout Illinois to carry out the last wishes and affairs of loved ones,” said Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove). “Families should be free to choose who takes on this sacred duty. This measure will be one less domino in the effect of permanent punishments that devastate children, families and communities of color across Illinois.”

The law allows people with previous felony convictions to act as executor of someone else’s estate. Under the measure, a convicted felon can only serve as an executor if the deceased person expressly named that person in their will and acknowledged they knew the person was a convicted felon.

Under the law, the executor could be disqualified if they have been convicted of financial exploitation of seniors or people with disabilities, financial identity theft or a similar crime in another state or federal court may be disqualified as an executor of an estate in Illinois.

“This law reflects our commitment to second chances, acknowledging the valuable contributions and capabilities of individuals who have served their time,” said Johnson. “Everyone deserves the opportunity to participate fully in society, and this effort brings us a step closer to inclusivity and fairness in our legal system.”

House Bill 1268 went into effect Jan. 1.