Action Alert: Bill Threatens Community Integration

OPPOSE SB 2610

 

SB 2610 seeks to create a new licensure system for a select few service providers that operate segregated campus-based institutions for people with developmental disabilities.  These so-called “continuum of care” facilities would operate under a single license that would enable them to move individuals in and out of different types/levels of services on or near the campus at their discretion.  SB 2610 also requires the state to apply for a Section 1115 Medicaid waiver for this purpose. 

 

SB 2610 perpetuates an antiquated system of service delivery and reinforces Illinois’ historic institutional bias.  The ADA and the U.S. Supreme Court’s Olmstead decision mandate that people with disabilities be served in the most integrated setting appropriate to meet their needs.  People with disabilities must be able to live in the community, work in the community, and participate in all aspects of community life together with their peers without disabilities.  Cycling people with developmental disabilities from one type or level of service to another on or near a segregated campus-based institution does not provide this opportunity.  Nor will it pass muster under recent rules of federal CMS that clarify what constitutes a home and community-based setting for purposes of a Medicaid HCBS waiver and emphasize person-centered planning.

 

SB 2610 will be heard in the House Human Services Committee on May 11, 2016 at 8:30 a.m. in Room C-1 of the Stratton Building in Springfield, IL. 

• Please contact the bill’s sponsor, members of the Committee and your own legislator TODAY and urge them to oppose SB 2610.
• To file an electronic witness slip in opposition to SB 2610: Click

 

House Sponsor of SB 2610

Representative Jim Durkin: 217-782-0494

 

House Human Services Committee Members

Robyn Gabel, Chair: 217-782-8052

Litesa Wallace: 217-782-3167

Patricia R. Bellock: 217-782-1448

Carol Ammons: 217-531-1660

Jaime M. Andrade, Jr.: 217-782-8117

Kelly M. Cassidy: 217-782-8088

Tom Demmer: 217-782-0535

Laura Fine: 217-782-4194

Mary E. Flowers: 217-782-4207

Norine K. Hammond: 217-782-0416

Sheri Jesiel—217-782-8151

Cynthia Soto—217-782-0150

Brian W. Stewart—217-782-8186

Michael Unes—217-782-8152

 

To find contact information for your State Representative: Click

 

For questions, please contact Cheryl R. Jansen, Public Policy Director, Equip for Equality at: 217-544-0464 ext. 6013 or cherylj2@equipforequality.org.