OPPOSE HB 6304 and SB 2610

 

HB 6304 and SB 2610 seek to create a new licensure system for a select few service providers that operate large, segregated campus facilities 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 at their discretion.  The services would be primarily provided “on campus”.   While CILA services may be included, they must be provided in close proximity to the campus.   HB 6304 and SB 2610 also require the state to apply for a Section 1115 Medicaid waiver for this purpose.

 

HB 6304 and SB 2610 perpetuate an antiquated system of service delivery and reinforce 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 large, segregated campus facility does not provide this opportunity.  Neither does it pass muster under recent rules of federal CMS that emphasize person-centered planning and clarify what constitutes a home and community-based setting for purposes of a Medicaid HCBS waiver.

 

HB 6304 will be heard in the House Human Services Committee on April 5, 2016 at 8:00 a.m. in Room C-1 of the Stratton Building.  Contact members of the Committee and your own legislator TODAY and urge them to oppose HB 6304.  To file an electronic witness slip in opposition to HB 6304: Click

 

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

 

SB 2610 will be heard in the Senate Human Services committee on April 5, 2016 at 3:00 p.m. in Room 409 of the Capitol Building.  Contact 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

 

Senate Human Services Committee Members

Daniel Biss, Chair: 217-782-2119

Julie A. Morrison: 217-782-3650

Melinda Bush: 217-782-7353

William Delgado: 217-782-5652

Mattie Hunter: 217-782-5966

Heather A. Steans: 217-782-8492

Dave Syverson: 217-782-5413

Tim Bivins: 217-782-0180

Dale A. Righter: 217-782-6674

 

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