Governor JB Pritzker recently signed into law two critical bills to support Illinoisans affected by dementia.
“With the signings, Illinois is leading the nation as we seek to become a dementia capable state until a cure or prevention is found,” said Delia Jervier, Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter executive director. “This will ensure that there are resources in place to support those impacted by Alzheimer’s disease right here in Illinois.”
Now law, Senate Bill 677 creates a first-in-the-nation ongoing dementia training requirement for all licensed healthcare providers serving adults. A joint initiative of Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton and the Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter, sponsored by Senator Ram Villivalam (D-8th) and Representative Kathleen Willis (D-77th), this legislation will help people living with dementia.
Additionally, House Bill 848 extends an Alzheimer’s-specific Illinois Lottery scratch-off ticket. Sponsored by Senator Melinda Bush (D-31st) and Representative Natalie Manley (D-98th), this critical funding stream will continue through 2024.
For the Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter, log on to www.alz.org or call (847) 933-2413.