HB 5173

Amends the Department of Human Services Act. In provisions concerning the transition program grants to assist eligible community agencies with active or pending Section 14(c) certificates to transition away from subminimum wages for workers with disabilities, requires the Department of Human Services to ensure equitable access to transition grants for all eligible holders of Section 14(c) certificates by (i) avoiding the concentration of funding among a limited number of grant recipients and (ii) promoting equity in the distribution of funds by being inclusive of all geographic regions of the State, provider sizes, and transition needs. Provides that every applicant that applies for grant funds and meets the grant criteria established by the Department shall be awarded a grant in an amount based upon the Department's funding criteria. Requires grant recipients to submit progress reports to the Department twice annually on a form developed by the Department in consultation with the Illinois Council on Developmental Disabilities. Sets forth the information required in the reports. Requires the Department to aggregate data collected from the reports and make it publicly available on an annual basis. Amends the Employment and Economic Opportunity for Persons with Disabilities Task Force Act. Requires the Department to ensure that there is project management for statewide implementation of the multi-year plan under the Dignity in Pay Act, Public Act 103-1060, through December 31, 2029. Sets forth a list of project management responsibilities. Requires the Department to ensure the availability of ongoing technical assistance to eligible Section 14(c) certificate holders throughout the transition period ending on December 31, 2029. Sets forth the type of technical assistance to be provided. Provides that funds appropriated for Section 14(c) transition purposes may be used for (i) transition program grants to eligible providers, (ii) statewide project management and coordination, and (iii) technical assistance and capacity-building supports. Effective immediately.