Yesterday, Phil Milsk our Governmental Affairs Consultant and I had the opportunity to meet
with Ryan Croke, the Governor’s Chief of Staff. Ryan is a good friend of The Arc and a strong
advocate for disability rights. On our agenda were the Governor’s Rebalancing Initiative,
Direct Support Staff Wages and Managed Care. The Arc appreciates the support of the
Governor and his team.
Phil, Ryan Croke & Tony at the Governor’s Office
1115 MEDICAID TRANSFORMATION WAIVER
I will share more with you later as I delve into this 78 page document but first a few quick
comments:
There is a major goal to reduce the waiting list.
Another goal is to move the system away from facility-based sheltered work programs by
promoting and foster greater community integrated, competitive employment opportunities.
Supporting rate increases for CILA and reduce incentive toward institutional care.
Expanding children’s mental health services.
I continue to see many positive possibilities in the 1115 Waiver. More to come…
FAMILIES CHOOSING GROUP HOME OVER INSTITUTIONS
Our good friend Karen Meyer at ABC News did a story on Lovey a former resident at a state
institution and her family’s testament about the value of living in the community. Secretary
Saddler is also interviewed in this story. ABC News Story.
.
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
