Grundy Reporter

The Pritzker Administration's announcement of planned budget cuts for programs supporting the developmentally disabled community has sparked a strong reaction from Republicans in Illinois. The proposed cuts would result in a reduction of 2.5 million hours of services provided by Direct Support Professionals (DSP) in group homes, affecting approximately 10,000 adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). The resulting decrease in funding would amount to $87.7 million, impacting 90% of all group home residents.

In response to this concerning development, every member of the Illinois Senate Republican Caucus has united in calling on Governor Pritzker to reverse these proposed cuts. Highlighting the vulnerability of this population, the Republicans argue that these reductions would have a devastating impact on those who are already underserved.

Senator Sue Rezin, one of the leading voices in this effort, emphasizes the urgent need for the Governor to rescind the proposed cuts. She points out that the Governor has already failed to adequately support the I/DD community, with a shortfall of half a billion dollars over the past five years. Senator Rezin cites an independent report by the Guidehouse Company, which provided recommendations that were not implemented by the Governor.

The Republicans also draw attention to the disparity between the proposed cuts to programs for the developmentally disabled and the increasing spending on immigrant services. They express concern that while funding for the I/DD community is being reduced, the state budget for immigrant services has seen a significant increase, reaching billions of dollars.

The Illinois Senate Republican Caucus's letter to Governor Pritzker reflects their deep concern for the welfare of the developmentally disabled community. They call for a reversal of the proposed cuts, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing the needs of this vulnerable population. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how the Governor will respond to this united call from the Republican Caucus.