Bill > SB1882

This bill establishes the Criminal Justice Special Advocates Program for People with Disabilities Act, creating a 3-year pilot program in 5 geographically diverse counties to support individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities involved in the criminal justice system. The program will provide at least one specially trained criminal justice special advocate in each selected county, who will be a non-attorney professional with experience working with people with disabilities. These advocates will help individuals with disabilities and their families navigate the criminal justice process, including explaining legal procedures, advocating for necessary accommodations, coordinating with legal and law enforcement professionals, providing referrals to support services, and offering support during court proceedings. The advocates will be county employees independent of the criminal justice system and will be selected based on criteria established by the Department of Human Services. The program aims to address the unique challenges people with intellectual or developmental disabilities face in understanding and participating in the criminal justice system, stemming from recommendations made by the Protection of Individuals with Disabilities in the Criminal Justice System Task Force. Funding for the pilot program will cover the advocates' salaries, benefits, training, supervision, equipment, and supplies, subject to appropriation.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocNum=1882&GAID=18&DocTypeID=SB&SessionID=114&GA=104