SPRINGFIELD – In an effort to remove barriers to education, employment and training for incarcerated individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, State Senator Adriane Johnson has advanced House Bill 1810.
“Everyone deserves access to education and job training, including those who are incarcerated,” said Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove). “This bill ensures individuals with disabilities are not unfairly excluded from opportunities that promote rehabilitation and successful reentry into society.”
House Bill 1810 would require reasonable accommodation for incarcerated individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities, including waiving standardized testing requirements for entry into educational, vocational and work programs. Participation in these programs through a waiver will also qualify individuals for earned sentence credit, helping reduce recidivism and support reintegration.
To strengthen support within correctional facilities, the bill also requires annual training for Illinois Department of Corrections staff on:
- Identifying individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities
- Providing appropriate accommodations and support in educational and vocational settings
- Administering alternative assessments
Furthermore, the legislation establishes a grievance process to protect the rights of incarcerated individuals with disabilities who are denied program access or accommodations.
“By ensuring equitable access to education and workforce training, we are not only upholding basic rights but also creating pathways for successful reentry,” said Johnson. “This is a step toward a more just and rehabilitative corrections system.”
House Bill 1810 passed the Senate Criminal Law Committee on Tuesday.
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