Bill > HB1788

This bill amends the Open Space Lands Acquisition and Development Act to require the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to prioritize projects that incorporate universal design elements in its grant application review process. Universal design is an approach to creating spaces and environments that are accessible to people with diverse abilities, ages, and backgrounds. Specifically, the bill defines universal design elements to include features like poured-in-place rubber or synthetic turf surfaces for enhanced mobility, multiple wheelchair-accessible entry points and routes, ground-level and elevated play components for individuals with different physical abilities, inclusive swings and seating, multi-sensory play elements like tactile panels and musical features, shaded areas for individuals with sensory sensitivities, and other construction, materials, or technologies as determined by administrative rules. The DNR is required to adopt rules establishing priorities and a scoring matrix that incorporate these universal design elements, with the goal of making public outdoor spaces more inclusive and accessible. The bill takes effect immediately upon becoming law.

Government Affairs

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocNum=1788&GAID=18&DocTypeID=HB&SessionID=114&GA=104