A group of Illinois state senators is urging Governor JB Pritzker to rethink planned reductions to Direct Support Professional hours for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Lawmakers caution that cutting 900,000 care hours may wipe out more than 400 jobs and leave community-based services short by $32 million. Advocates say such changes would directly affect the quality of care for vulnerable residents across the state. The senators are calling for alternative solutions to preserve essential services and support jobs that help individuals maintain independence and quality of life in their local communities.
“There will be lean years and there will be tight years, but every year – the state budget is a list of priorities. It is our duty as legislators to represent not just our constituents but all vulnerable Illinoisans who need our state’s help and protection,” the letter reads. “The IDD community has been pushed aside for far too long. This year you have the chance to prioritize them and make promised investments that help bring dignity and quality of life to these valued and vulnerable citizens.”
