SPRINGFIELD – In May 2022, a 23-year-old resident from the district State Senator Adriane Johnson represents died after an ambulance collided with his motorcycle. Over the next year, she worked with the Fire Chief Association, key stakeholders and his family to honor his life and ensure that no other person is injured or killed in such a way.

“No family should endure the tragedy of losing a loved one due to preventable accidents,” said Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove). “The loss suffered by DJ and his family drives our commitment to ensuring comprehensive training is in place, public safety is prioritized, and future heartbreaking incidents are prevented.”

The measure comes after Donald Stallworth, III was tragically killed when his motorcycle was struck by an ambulance that went through a stop sign without active sirens. Reports from the crash said the ambulance did not have its siren on. Johnson worked in tandem with Stallworth’s family to ensure what happened that tragic day in Waukegan won’t happen to another person.

Together, they passed Senate Bill 1251 – known as the Donald (DJ) Stallworth, III Act. The law provides extended training for first responders as it pertains to sirens and lights on emergency vehicles. Further, it requires ambulances going through a red light or stop sign to use both the sound and light warnings.

“This law is a promise to safeguard the lives of emergency responders and civilians by ensuring events like this never happen in our community again,” said Johnson. “By expanding training for ambulance drivers, we’re aiming to equip emergency responders with the necessary expertise to navigate our roads, guaranteeing every trip to save a life doesn’t pose a risk to others.”

Senate Bill 1251 went into effect Jan. 1.

WAUKEGAN – In an effort to raise mental health awareness, State Senator Adriane Johnson is collaborating with State Representative Rita Mayfield to host a Self-Care Health Fair to provide resources to local residents.

“Mental health is just as important as physical health and deserves the same amount of support,” said Johnson (D – Buffalo Grove). “The Self-Care Health Fair is the beginning of a vital six-month long community service project to help local residents prioritize their mental health.”

The six month project will begin with a health fair followed by group and individual therapy during the remaining months. Local and state organizations will be present Feb. 3 from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. to provide mental health resources to the public at the Eleanor Murkey Community Center of the College of Lake County, located at 34 N. Sheridan Rd. Johnson is inviting Mental Health organizations and licensed professionals interested in participating in the health fair to sign up here.

This ongoing Self-Care Health initiative will take place on the first Saturday of every month starting Feb. 3 until July 13. Licensed therapists interested in volunteering are encouraged to sign up here.

“There is an increase in need for mental health care during these vulnerable winter months,” said Johnson. “In hosting the Self-Care Health Fair, 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.

WAUKEGAN – State Senator Adriane Johnson is inviting residents of the 30^th district to join her and a few of her colleagues for a town hall meeting on Thursday, Jan. 11 at 6 p.m.

“As I prepare for the upcoming legislative session, it is important that I continue to inform and connect with the communities I represent,” said Johnson (D – Buffalo Grove). “I look forward to hosting this town hall as a chance to have informative dialogue with residents.”

The town hall will take place from 6 to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 11 at Crist Rey St. Martin College Prep in Waukegan, located at 3106 Belvidere Rd. Johnson will be joined by her colleagues, State Representatives Daniel Didech and Rita Mayfield.

People will be able to receive assistance and make connections with community leaders. Attendees are also encouraged to bring new or lightly worn coats to donate to neighbors in need.

“As cold weather settles in, I am hopeful we can work together to help our neighbors who are less fortunate,” said Johnson. “This town hall will double as an opportunity for residents to donate winter gear to those in need.”

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

WAUKEGAN – Thanks to continuous support from State Senator Adriane Johnson, Waukegan Park District will receive a $40,000 grant from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources to enhance the Michigan Trail trailhead.

“This funding is invaluable when it comes the positive impact it has in our community,” said Johnson (D – Buffalo Grove). “When we prioritize our park districts, we see the benefit that it has on our children and overall community.”   

More than $3.7 million was awarded to 19 different communities, which will be used to help meet the growing demand for improved trails and outdoor recreational facilities. Grants may be used for land acquisition, trail construction and rehabilitation, purchase of equipment for trail development and maintenance, restoration of areas damaged by unauthorized trail use, construction of trail-related support facilities such as parking and restrooms, and educational programs.

The 19 recipients were recommended for funding by the Illinois Greenways and Trails Council, overseen by IDNR, and is made up of representatives of statewide motorized and non-motorized user organizations, state agencies, organizations involved in greenways and trails and metro-area greenways and trails coalitions.

The grant for the recreational trail development project at Hinkston Park will help the Waukegan Park District renovate the popular trail into an accessible space where individuals of all abilities will be able to enjoy the outdoors.

“This project will have an immense impact on promoting inclusivity and enhancing the outdoor experience for our community,” said Jay Lerner, executive director of the Waukegan Park District. “The Waukegan Park District is grateful for Senator Adriane Johnson’s advocacy to help us secure several grants like these, and her unwavering commitment to parks and recreation in Waukegan and across Illinois.”

To see a full list of recipients, click here.