Rep. Jesiel Passes Legislation to Promote Person-Centered Approach for People with Development Disabilities

SPRINGFIELD - This week, State Representative Sheri Jesiel (R-Winthrop Harbor) unanimously passed legislation through the Illinois House of Representatives to ensure a person-centered approach for people with developmental disabilities.

"Every person deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, which is what House Bill 5537 is all about," said Jesiel. "State and Federal law already calls for a person-centered approach to planning for people with developmental disabilities, but in the past, part of Illinois' community-integrated living arrangements act contradicted this approach. Passing House Bill 5537 eliminates this contradiction and ensures anyone who has a developmental disability is afforded the dignity they deserve."

Although the person-centered approach to planning for persons with developmental disabilities is already standard practice, the Community-Integrated Living Arrangements Licensure and Certification Act called for the adoption of a state plan. Through HB 5537, the state plan will no longer be required, preserving the individual integrity of persons with developmental disabilities and saving taxpayer dollars in the process.

"I'm pleased the House passed this legislation unanimously and hope it passes the Senate with the same level of support," said Jesiel.