Metro East Sun

The past week in Springfield saw the continuation of committee work and voting on Senate bills. Despite a relatively quiet week, the coming weeks are anticipated to be filled with controversial bills, heated debates, and substantial work. Additionally, there was an opportunity to welcome constituents to the Capitol.

This week's update is slightly different as it includes an op-ed written by Charlie Meier, 109th District State Representative and Assistant Minority Leader, about the impending legislation that aims to impose stringent mandates on workshops providing employment opportunities for residents with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Meier has been actively opposing these mandates for over two years now.

In his op-ed titled "Well-Meaning HB 793 will Cost Developmentally Disabled Workers Their Jobs and Their Dignity," Meier expresses his concern about several unresolved major issues as the legislative session nears its end. He recalls his fight against a governor who attempted to close the Warren G. Murray Center in Centralia and how it took years of collective efforts from volunteers, lawyers, and lawmakers to prevent this closure which would have adversely affected families and residents at the Murray Center.

Meier emphasizes his dedication towards ensuring that Illinois does right by individuals and families in State Operated Developmental Centers (SODC) and Community Integrated Living Arrangements (CILAs). His focus is primarily on fighting for facilities, residents, and their families - a fight he takes immense pride in having been successful at.

The purpose of his lengthy essay is to draw attention once again to an issue currently under process that could potentially affect the future of the developmentally disabled community he works tirelessly to protect. The issue pertains to 14c workshops - non-profit organizations where people with developmental disabilities learn skills and perform menial tasks as a means of socializing outside their homes while contributing positively to society.

These workshops have proven their worth over time through successful partnerships with companies that support their mission. However, concerns arise as the individuals working in these workshops are paid less than Illinois' minimum wage. Meier led opposition against legislation to raise this wage to match the state's minimum wage during the last spring session, arguing that such a move could lead companies to shut down these programs due to economic considerations.

Meier also highlights the potential fiscal impact of HB 793 on employers. If passed and signed into law, it could increase employer costs from just over $7.5 million to more than $27 million. This, coupled with higher taxes on client income and potential jeopardization of their Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) Benefits, has led Meier to firmly believe that HB 793 would cost at least 50% to 70% or higher of these people their jobs and purpose in life.

In other news, last week saw House and Senate Democrats passing legislation that changes rules for candidates getting on the ballot in the middle of an election cycle. This move has been criticized as undermining democracy.

The Illinois Peace Officer Memorial Ceremony was held last week to honor fallen law enforcement officers. The ceremony was attended by officers from across the state who recognized those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Lastly, a noteworthy event was moving an 1893 World’s Fair Piano from one of Okawville's museums - Dr. Poos house - which is set to be sold soon, to Meier's house.