Assemblyman Al Stripe (D-Cicero) announced that he’s helped craft the Assembly’s budget proposal which would strengthen education and housing programs for people with disabilities. Assemblyman Stirpe is also pushing for legislation that would further help people with disabilities live independent lives in our communities (A.1276).

“As the parent of a daughter with disabilities, I know first-hand the struggles and hardships families face when it comes to accessing housing, education and healthcare – it’s hard to entrust others with their future,” said Assemblyman Al Stirpe. “I want our families to know that I understand their concerns and we’ve made it a priority to include crucial services in this year’s budget proposal.”

The Assembly proposal includes an additional 2.4 percent in funding for special act school districts for the disabled, blind and deaf, which will provide an overall $20 million in funding. It also improves access to housing services for seniors and those with disabilities by providing $6.4 million for the Housing Opportunities Program for the Elderly and a $1 million increase to support independent living centers. In addition, it helps fund the Access to Home for Heroes Program for disabled veterans and Access to Home Program – which aim to make living arrangements more accessible.

Assemblyman Stirpe also noted that this year he is advocating for legislation – the Vistability Tax Credit – that would offer tax incentives to homeowners for new construction or renovation projects that build accessibility features for people with disabilities (A.1276). These homes would break down barriers that make it hard to live and enjoy an independent life within our communities, while allowing people to stay in their homes as they get older.

This year’s proposal also allocates $5 million to support the development of new service opportunities for individuals with disabilities who are living with aging parents. It also includes language to help disabled individuals properly transition from institutional placements back into their communities.

“As your representative, I will continue being an outspoken advocate for our friends and family members with disabilities – we must do more and we can’t accept anything less,” stated Assemblyman Stirpe. “This proposal places us in the right direction and I’m happy to continue building on our successes.”