Dupage Policy Journal

State Senator Seth Lewis, a Republican from Bartlett, has joined forces with his colleagues in demanding that Governor Pritzker withdraw a proposal to reduce service hours for intellectually and developmentally disabled adults in Illinois group homes. The proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2025 includes a plan to cut service hours by 2.5 million, a move that has caused concern among advocates for the disabled community.

One organization deeply affected by these potential cuts is the Ray Graham Association, which operates multiple group homes in Senator Lewis' district. These homes currently house over 150 adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Senator Lewis emphasizes the importance of these group homes, stating that they provide excellent services and help residents achieve a level of independence that would otherwise be unattainable.

Expressing his commitment to protecting the rights and well-being of these vulnerable citizens, Senator Lewis declared, "I have group homes in the 24th District that would be directly affected by these cuts, and I will do everything in my power to ensure they do not happen." He also emphasizes that if implemented, these cuts would impact approximately 10,000 intellectually and developmentally disabled individuals statewide who rely on the support of the state government.

In a letter addressed to Governor Pritzker on January 17, Republican Senators highlighted the significant impact these proposed cuts would have on the ID/D population living in group homes. The letter points out that the reductions translate to a nearly 10% decrease in service hours, occurring at a time when the Governor has allocated substantial funds for services benefiting non-citizens and asylum seekers. The letter states, "It's obvious your priorities are not with the citizens of this state who are the most underserved."

The proposed decrease in service hour funding negates the progress made in the FY2024 budget, where legislators from both parties successfully advocated for a $2.50 per hour wage increase for Direct Support Professionals. Senator Lewis expresses concern about the potential consequences of these cuts, recounting the numerous calls and emails his office has received from worried family members. He firmly believes that the government's primary responsibility is to care for those who cannot care for themselves, including individuals living with disabilities.

The bipartisan effort to oppose these cuts reflects the shared belief that proper care and services for the intellectually and developmentally disabled population are crucial. Advocates argue that reducing service hours would not only hinder progress but could potentially set individuals back, undermining the very support system that enables them to lead independent lives.

The Senate Republicans' letter to Governor Pritzker can be accessed for further information and insight into their concerns regarding the proposed cuts. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen whether Governor Pritzker will reconsider the reduction in service hours for intellectually and developmentally disabled Illinoisans living in group homes.