SPRINGFIELD – In the midst of a nine-month budget impasse, the Illinois State Senate today passed a funding package that includes funding for services for those living with developmental disabilities. State Senator Laura Murphy (D-Des Plaines), supported the legislation to ensure services for her constituents.

Murphy’s state senate district currently has the second highest number of individuals in the state living with developmental disabilities who are receiving no state services.  

“These funds are absolutely necessary to ensure that services are available for those living with autism, epilepsy and other developmental disabilities,” Murphy said. “As a state, we need to prioritize funding to help our neediest citizens.”

Additionally, several local centers such as Clearbrook in Arlington Heights, which provide services for people of all ages with developmental disabilities, are in danger of being forced to drastically cut or even eliminate services due to a lack of funds.

“Dozens of local families have contacted me, scared about what will happen to their loved ones if the state budget impasse continues. This legislation provides the funds necessary to ensure their loved ones receive the best care possible,” Murphy said.

The proposal also includes funding for MAP grants, which help cover the growing cost of higher education for students.

“In a state where 56 percent of the work force is required to have an education beyond high school, MAP grants are essential to helping students earn their education and enter our work force. This vote is for the more than 1,900 students in my district that depend on these funds to go to school and eventually get a job,” Murphy said.

The legislation, Senate Bill 2059, was part of a larger package that contained appropriations for programs that have received no state funding during the budget impasse, including public universities, community colleges, and breast and cervical cancer screenings. It now heads to the Illinois House of Representatives.