Ellman supports SB3255 to postpone direct support professional credential pilot program

State Sen. Laura Ellman (D-21st) voted in support of SB3255, a measure to postpone the launch of the direct support professional credential pilot program, during the 104th General Assembly on May 31, 2026, according to the Illinois Senate; the bill passed with a 37-21 vote.

The official bill summary describes it as: "DHS-DSP PILOT PROGRAM."

The information below draws directly from the bill text and includes clarification meant to explain the legislation's main provisions.

This legislation changes the Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities Administrative Act by moving the start date for the direct support professional credential pilot program from state fiscal year 2025 to state fiscal year 2028. Administered by the Department of Human Services Division of Developmental Disabilities, the pilot will still run for three years and involve both licensed and certified providers. Its aim is to evaluate whether a state credential can help recruit and retain staff, boost professional skills, improve service quality, and strengthen the safety and well-being of people with developmental disabilities. The bill is effective immediately.

The legislative record for SB3255 notes the action as 'House Floor Amendment No. 1 Senate Concurs'.

Ellman is a 1987 graduate of Grinnell College with a bachelor of science degree.

Representing the 21st Senate District, Democrat Ellman was elected to the Illinois State Senate in 2019, taking over for former senator Michael Connelly.

Illinois legislation proceeds through a multi-step process that starts in either chamber, continues through committee review, floor debate, and votes in both the House and Senate before heading to the governor for a signature or veto. The General Assembly meets on a biennial cycle, and although thousands of bills are proposed each session, only a small number ultimately become law.