Chambana Sun

Jeanne Ives, founder of Breakthrough Ideas, criticized Illinois lawmakers for what she described as inadequate aid to the developmentally disabled while increasing their own pay. The statement was made in a press release.

"Even more shameful is the lip-service the Democrats gave the developmentally disabled community," said Jeanne M Ives. "Illinois ranks 49th out 50 among states in the level of support it gives the developmentally disabled."

Illinois lawmakers have taken significant steps in 2025 to improve services for developmentally disabled residents. According to Capitol News Illinois, the fiscal year 2025 budget includes a $2.6 billion allocation for developmental disability services. This covers an $0.80–$1.00 per hour wage increase for direct support professionals (DSPs), $100 million in capital grants for service providers, and expansion of crisis stabilization housing. Bills like SB 1690 aim to ensure DSPs earn 150% of the state minimum wage, in compliance with the Ligas Consent Decree.

Jeanne Ives, Founder of Breakthrough Ideas | Provided

According to a 2024 Policygenius analysis, North Dakota ranked as the top state for individuals with disabilities based on affordability, healthcare access, employment rates, and benefits. Wisconsin and Iowa followed closely, with each state excelling in public health and support services. The rankings reflect disparities in state-level policies and funding for disability services.

Capitol News Illinois reported that Illinois’ FY 2025 budget raised DSP wages by $0.80 per hour but resulted in a 35% cut in reimbursed service hours, eliminating over 300,000 care hours. This follows a wage trend reported by AFSCME (American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees), where average DSP pay in Illinois rose from $11.46 in 2017 to about $20.50 in 2025—a 78% increase. The funding formula changes have sparked concern over access to adequate care.

Jeanne Ives is a former Illinois state representative who served the 42nd district from 2013 to 2019 and is the founder of Breakthrough Ideas. According to Ballotpedia, Ives graduated from West Point, served in the U.S. Army, and later ran for governor in 2018 and for Congress in 2020. She currently holds a position on the Illinois Republican State Central Committee.