Bill > HB3043

This bill establishes the Criminal Justice Special Advocates Program for People with Disabilities Act, which creates a 3-year pilot program in 5 geographically diverse counties to provide specialized support for individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities involved in the criminal justice system. The Department of Human Services will fund and oversee the program, which will place at least one criminal justice special advocate in each selected county. These advocates, who will be non-attorneys with experience working with people with disabilities, will provide comprehensive support including helping individuals and their families understand legal processes, advocating for necessary accommodations, coordinating with legal and service professionals, and ensuring that the unique needs of people with disabilities are met throughout their criminal justice involvement. The program stems from recommendations by the Protection of Individuals with Disabilities in the Criminal Justice System Task Force, which identified a critical need for specialized advocacy services to help individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities navigate the complexities of the legal system. The advocates will be independent of county criminal justice officials and will focus on supporting individuals through court proceedings, interviews, and other legal processes while connecting them with appropriate mental health and community resources.

Budget and Finance

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocNum=3043&GAID=18&DocTypeID=HB&SessionID=114&GA=104