Reminder DUE TODAY – Application for DD Advisory Committee
Applications to join the new DD Advisory Committee that will advise Director Stark on home and community based services. Here is information about the committee, expected to meet about quarterly. Here is the one page application to be sent to allison.stark@illinois.gov. The Arc wants to make sure that there is strong and diverse representation of self advocates, families, community organizations and ISCs. Please consider forwarding this through your networks!
Reminder DUE TODAY – Act Now to Protect Social Security and SSI!
The Social Security Administration (SSA) has proposed a rule that would require complicated paperwork more often and put benefits for thousands of people with disabilities at risk! SSA is taking comments from the public that the government must read and respond to before it makes the rule final until TODAY JANUARY 31.
It is critical that the disability community sends in as many comments as possible explaining why this rule is harmful and how Social Security and SSI help people with disabilities to stop the rule from being implemented. Act now and submit your letters today.
Thank you for your advocacy!
Reminder DUE FEB 3 MIDNIGHT – Comment on the State Board Proposed Rules around Seclusion and Restraint
Don’t miss the opportunity to share your thoughts, stories and experiences about the Illinois State Board of Education regarding their proposed new rules around seclusion and restraint. The proposed rules prohibit isolated seclusion and some restraint. ISBE MUST hear from self advocates, families and organizations. Comments do not need to be comprehensive or formal. Here is a link to the summary of the proposed rules. The full text of the proposed rules can be found at this link. Information, questions, input should be directed to: Azita Kakvand, Agency Rules Coordinator, Illinois State Board of Education, 100 North First Street Springfield, Illinois 62777-0001, (217) 782-6510, rules@isbe.net.
IMPORTANT RESEARCH
Transition Survey
As part of our Illinois LEND Program project, we are seeking guidance from families and self-advocates regarding the transition from school-based support services to community-based services. If you are a self-advocate (individual with a developmental disability) or a parent or guardian of an individual with a developmental disability who has been through the transition process in the last 7 years, we would appreciate your input and guidance on this short (3-5 minute) survey. We will be building a one page Transition Advocacy Tool, and will distribute to families and self-advocates for use during the transition process. Thank you.
