DeLaRosa backs HB1810 to expand work, education access for incarcerated individuals with disabilities

Rep. Margaret A. DeLaRosa (D-42nd) cast a Yes vote for HB1810, a bill designed to ensure equitable access to work and educational programs for incarcerated individuals with disabilities, during the 104th General Assembly on May 31, 2026, the Illinois House records show. The legislation passed with a vote count of 80-36.

According to the official bill summary, it addresses "INCARCERATED-DISABILITIES."

The following is a summary of the bill's language, including explanations to clarify key points where needed.

Known as the Equitable Access to Education, Employment, and Training for Incarcerated Individuals with Disabilities Act, this legislation seeks to provide fair opportunities for individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities within correctional facilities. The act requires waivers for the Test of Adult Basic Education and equivalent assessments for those with disabilities, facilitating their eligibility for programs that offer credit toward sentence reductions. It mandates annual disability awareness training for Department of Corrections employees and calls for alternative assessment development. Compliance with federal law, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act, is emphasized, and the law provides a grievance process for anyone denied program access or accommodations. The act takes effect immediately upon becoming law.

The House reported the action as 'Senate Floor Amendment No. 1 House Concurs.'

DeLaRosa earned her BS from DePaul University.

Elected as a Democrat in 2025, DeLaRosa represents Illinois' 42nd House District, succeeding former state representative Terra Costa Howard.

Illinois bills progress through a thorough legislative process, beginning with introduction in either chamber, followed by committee scrutiny, floor debates, and votes in both the House and Senate before reaching the governor for signature or veto. The General Assembly conducts business on a biennial timeline, with thousands of bills typically introduced each term and only a small percentage ultimately enacted into law.