Well the primary election is over. We now know who will be running for public office which
includes the opportunity to serve individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities
or will they?
The November elections will once again be critical to our cause.
Vital issues will be be debated and we need to make inclusive lives in the community one of
those vital issues. We need to find out where candidates stand on:
Closing antiquated state institutions?
Eliminating the waiting list now over 22,000 children and adults with IDD?
Wages and benefits for Direct Support Professionals?
Will the Developmental Disability System fall under managed care?
What is their position on school inclusion?
The need for new revenue or continuation of the state’s income tax?
These are but a few of the important issues facing all of us in the November elections. The
Arc will be developing materials for you to interview candidates for public office. We also
encourage you to work with other advocates to host Candidate Forums in your area.
Public policy plays a major role in the life of all children and adults with intellectual and
developmental disabilities. We must be active in the up coming election.
Tony Paulauski Executive Director
The Arc of Illinois
20901 S. LaGrange Rd. Suite 209
Frankfort, IL 60423
815-464-1832 (OFFICE)
815-464-1832 (CELL)
Tony@www.thearcofil.org
