Sen. Linda Holmes backs SB3255 to postpone direct support credential pilot program

Sen. Linda Holmes (D-42nd) supported SB3255, voting Yes to delay the implementation of the direct support professional credential pilot program during the 104th General Assembly on May 31, 2026, according to the Illinois Senate. The legislation cleared the Senate with a 37-21 vote.

The official summary of the bill is referenced as follows: "DHS-DSP PILOT PROGRAM."

The following overview is derived from the actual published bill text and may paraphrase content to enhance clarity of the legislative provisions.

The bill modifies the Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities Administrative Act, shifting the launch of the direct support professional credential pilot program from state fiscal year 2025 to state fiscal year 2028. Managed by the Department of Human Services’ Division of Developmental Disabilities, the program will continue to run for three years and work with both licensed and certified providers. The initiative intends to evaluate whether a state-administered credential improves recruitment, retention, professional capacity, service quality, and the health and safety of people with developmental disabilities. The legislation is effective immediately upon passage.

The legislative action recorded for SB3255 was 'House Floor Amendment No. 1 Senate Concurs'.

Holmes earned her BA from National College of Education in 1984.

Holmes, representing the Democratic Party, joined the Illinois State Senate in 2007 as senator for the 42nd District, succeeding Phyllis Petka.

Illinois laws are enacted through a multi-step legislative process beginning with a bill’s introduction in the House or Senate. Bills proceed through committee review, debate on the floor, and votes in both chambers before being presented to the governor for approval or veto. The General Assembly operates on a biennial term, with thousands of bills introduced each session, although only a portion become law.