[IL-Talk] Today's meeting

[Bill Reif]

Hello Everyone,


The consensus of the committee is that most could meet later today, at 
the proposed time of 6:30 PM. The State Legislative Committee will meet 
this time via the free conference line. The number is (605) 313-4819. 
Access code: 6324#. All who are interested in our state legislative 
efforts are welcome to attend.


There are several items of legislation we are following, and one in 
which we are involved in promoting. The agenda is below:



Voting Accessibility: SB2326, contains many of the provisions included 
in efforts to make voting by mail more accessible. Many on the committee 
are involved in discussions with the Illinois State Board of Elections 
and other stake holders such as Equipped for Equality. NFB 
representatives are also involved.

Rehabilitation Services changes: HB1981

My review of the full text suggest that changes that appear to restrict 
services may actually reflect a federal focus on rehabilitation that 
happened several years ago.



Elimentary and  Secondary Education: Internet Accessibility: HB26

This bill is assigned to the House Elimentary/secondary Education 
Committee. So far, no virtual hearing has been set. Accessibility for 
the blind is particularly important with online instruction's recent 
prominence.


Finally: We will also discuss what may be efforts to move the Department 
of Rehabilitation services from a subdepartment of Human Services to the 
Department of Commerce.  I do not know whether these efforts are 
legislative, or even whether legislation may be necessary.


We suddenly find ourselves with many issues to monitor. Fortunately, we 
have a large State Legislation Committee I am hopeful can assist Dave 
and I in this important work.


Cordially,

Bill Reif, State Legislative Chair