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This February, Governor JB Pritzker’s budget proposal included only $6 million in increased funds in FY25 for the state’s Early Intervention (EI) program, which provides critical services to children who have or are at risk for significant developmental delays and disabilities, whereas a $40 million appropriation is needed to help ensure equitable access to necessary developmental services and supports that are known to dramatically improve a child’s lifelong trajectory.
Take action today to ensure that our youngest learners & the workforce that supports them have the funds they need!
Thousands of families are still waiting for the EI services to which they are legally entitled. Service delays are tied directly to the program’s ongoing workforce crisis. Despite the long-overdue funding increase this fiscal year, Early Intervention providers continue to leave the program because the math doesn’t add up. Last year’s Smart Start investment in EI was only the first step, there is a critical long-term investment needed.
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Here are some ways to add your voice to those urging the IL General Assembly to ask for and approve a total of $40 million in additional funding for Early Intervention this spring:
Even if you’ve already contacted your lawmaker, please do so again! It will take all of us being in regular contact with our lawmakers to ensure that Early Intervention has the funding to alleviate the current crisis. Thank you in advance for helping make Illinois the best state in the nation in which to raise a child.
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