via the Chicago Tribune (6.15.11):
Deal gives 3,000 developmentally disabled people choice of community-based housing
Settlement gives state 6 years to complete plan
by Lisa Black
State officials will begin drawing up plans to move 3,000 people with developmental and intellectual disabilities into community-based housing of their choice, as directed under a federal settlement approved Wednesday that allows for a six-year timetable.
The governor's office praised the settlement, which will expand services to new residents on a 21,000-member waiting list — but officials offered no answers on how they expect to pay additional costs during Illinois' fiscal crunch.
"The final cost will be determined by how many people elect community-based care," said Januari Smith, spokeswoman for the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services and the Department of Human Services, the defendants in the lawsuit.
How do you think IL residents with developmental disabilities will respond to having this option? Share your thoughts in comments below.
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