HR0164 104TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HR0164 LRB104 12531 LAW 22959 r

HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The State of Illinois is committed to ensuring equal access, inclusion, and mobility for all residents, including individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (ID/DD); and

WHEREAS, Accessible and reliable transportation is essential for individuals with ID/DD to live independently, access healthcare, pursue education and employment opportunities, and fully participate in their communities; and

WHEREAS, Many service providers rely on the transportation system to support individuals with ID/DD in achieving their fullest potential, making equitable transportation policy a fundamental necessity; and

WHEREAS, These transportation providers often face funding challenges, operational barriers, and resource limitations that hinder their ability to adequately serve the ID/DD community; and

WHEREAS, Proper support for these providers is necessary to maintain and expand transportation services that enable individuals with ID/DD to live their fullest lives; and

WHEREAS, The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other federal and State laws require that transportation systems accommodate individuals with disabilities, yet ongoing challenges persist in ensuring that public and private transportation options fully meet the needs of the ID/DD community; and

WHEREAS, Investments in accessible transit infrastructure, paratransit services, and innovative mobility solutions will enhance the quality of life for individuals with ID/DD and promote their independence; and

WHEREAS, Transportation planning and funding decisions must incorporate comprehensive input from the ID/DD community, advocates, service providers, and other stakeholders to ensure equitable outcomes; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ONE HUNDRED FOURTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, THE SENATE CONCURRING HEREIN, that any transportation legislative package considered by the Illinois General Assembly should include complete consideration of the needs of the individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (ID/DD) community, including, but not limited to, accessibility, affordability, availability of transportation options, and the needs of providers who support individuals with ID/DD; and be it further

RESOLVED, That we urge State agencies, regional planning organizations, and transportation providers to prioritize accessibility, stakeholder engagement, and equitable investment in transportation infrastructure to better serve individuals with ID/DD; and be it further

RESOLVED, That suitable copies of this resolution be delivered to the Governor, the Secretary of the Illinois Department of Transportation, the Chair of the Illinois State Toll Highway Authority, the Directors of the Regional Transportation Authority, and the leadership of all relevant legislative committees.