What is the Blueprint?

The Blueprint for System Redesign in Illinois is a seven-year action plan that would fundamentally reform Illinois' system of developmental disability services to better integrate community supports.

If enacted, the Blueprint would:

- Eliminate Illinois’ 17,000 person-long waiting list for services.

- Implement more cost-effective state spending in which the money follows the person.

- Close 5 of the 9 state-run institutions over the course of seven years and replacing them with community-based living options.

 What do lawmakers say about the Blueprint?

In May, both the Illinois Senate and House of Representatives adopted a joint resolution that calls for the Department of Human Services and Division of Developmental Disabilities to develop a 7-year Plan with annual benchmarks to enhance and expand access to quality community services and supports based on the Blueprint, by December 1, 2009. The Senate passed the resolution unanimously 56-0. In the House, the resolution passed by an overwhelming 111-3 (with 3 present). View the resolution by clicking here. Here's what Illinois legislators from both parties have to say about the Blueprint:

“The Blueprint represents a real plan of change for people with developmental disabilities and their families.” Rep. Kathleen Ryg (D-Vernon Hills)

“The Blueprint is a practical, well thought out plan to reform Illinois’ archaic and expensive system into a community based alternative that truly serves our developmentally disabled citizens and families.”  Rep. David R. Leitch (R Peoria)

“The Blueprint lays out real solutions.” Rep. Naomi Jakobsson (D-Champaign)

“We need a modern approach emphasizing community-based supports and services, and the Blueprint is a plan to get us there.” Sen. Terry Link (D-Waukegan)

“It’s past time for the state to truly support community-based services for people with developmental disabilities.” Sen. Dave Syverson (R-Rockford)

Where did the Blueprint come from?

In the spring of 2008, the Illinois Council on Developmental Disabilities (ICDD) engaged the Human Services Research Institute (HSRI) to investigate the state’s current system of services. HRSI concluded that Illinois’ current system – which heavily relies on institutions to provide developmental disability services -- was failing tens of thousands of people. A plan for action was needed. The Blueprint was born.

Learn more and take more action on the Blueprint:

Read the Blueprint for System Redesign in Illinois report (pdf)

Download the Blueprint Executive Summary (pdf)

Read the entire Gap Analysis (pdf)

Sign a petition supporting the Blueprint (link)