Good Morning,
CELEBRATE THE ADA
July 26 marks the 30th Anniversary of the American with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) being signed into law. The impact of the ADA on people with disabilities cannot be overstated. It prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including jobs, schools, transportation, and all public and private places that are open to the general public. It ensured that all people with disabilities have the same rights and opportunities as everyone else.
IDHS will be holding a Virtual Commemoration on July 30 from 9am to 1pm with a phenomenal line-up of speakers including Governor Pritzker. We hope you will join us! For more information on the speakers and the link to join: https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=125626&newssidebar=32765
ICDD 5 YEAR PLAN SURVEY LINK
The Illinois Council on Developmental Disabilities (ICDD) is looking closely at Illinois and the needs of every person with a developmental disability to be able to live a healthy and happy life in their community. The Council's activities and funding opportunities are guided by their 5-Year State Plan (YSP). ICDD is looking ahead to what should be in their next 5-YSP which begins in the fall of 2021. ICDD invites you to share your thoughts with them by taking a short survey (5 minutes!). You can access the survey here: https://conta.cc/2ZcvjgJ
ADULT PROTECTIVE SERVICES RELEASES ENGAGE2CHANGE
The Illinois Department on Aging is responsible for administering Adult Protective Services (APS) in the state. APS conducts investigations of cases of abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation of adults age 18-59 with disabilities in the community and adults age 60 or older. They just released their new campaign Engage2Change. The campaign promotes justice, equity and the ability to participate, contribute and thrive in communities for all. Check it out here: https://www2.illinois.gov/aging/engage/Pages/default.aspx
STATEWIDE TRANSITION PLAN EXTENSION
We have been notified that Federal CMS has extended the HCBS settings compliance date by 12 months to March 17, 2023. You can find the notification here: https://www.medicaid.gov/Federal-Policy-Guidance/Downloads/smd20003.pdf. I would encourage providers to read this.
BALC SURVEY UPDATE
Below is a link to a memo from the Bureau of Accreditation, Licensure and Certification that informs IDHS licensed or certified community provider agencies that BALC will be conducting self-assessments and new site inspections beginning in July 2020. Please take a look: https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=125649.
Thank you for all you do!
Warmly,
Allison
