Gov.
Blagojevich signs bill to extend special education services for
students with disabilities
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Law helps
young people with disabilities transition into adulthood
[July 21, 2007]
SPRINGFIELD -- Gov. Rod R. Blagojevich
signed legislation July 16 that allows young people with
disabilities to continue receiving the services necessary to help
them transition smoothly into adulthood.
House Bill 817, sponsored by state Rep. Elizabeth Coulson,
R-Glenview, and state Sen. Deanna Demuzio, D-Carlinville, clarifies
the definition of "children with disabilities" to include students
through age 21.
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"The transition from childhood to adulthood can be a difficult one
-- especially for young people with disabilities. I'm happy to sign
a law to help make sure students with disabilities are able to
continue receive the education services they need to become
productive adults," Blagojevich said.This law establishes
uniformity in the Illinois School Code with respect to the
definition of "children with disabilities," making students
statewide eligible to receive special education services up until
the day of their 22nd birthday.
"I would like to thank Governor Blagojevich for recognizing the
importance of this legislation, which will ensure that students with
disabilities can receive the services they need to help them become
adults," said Coulson.
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![](http://archives.lincolndailynews.com/2007/Jul/21/images/ads/current/clinton%20equipment%20company%20land%20pride%20ad%20060507.png) |
![](http://archives.lincolndailynews.com/2007/Jul/21/images/ads/current/asse%20lda%20070607.jpg) "This bill is so important for young people with disabilities,"
said Demuzio. "We must make sure that every young person has the
same chance to succeed in life, and I would like to thank the
governor for signing this legislation and making sure students with
disabilities have the chance to do just that."
"This bill provides students with special needs additional
opportunities to develop their skills to reach their maximum
potential in life," said State Superintendent of Education
Christopher Koch. "It provides Illinois schools with clear guidance
on their responsibilities and will give these students a strong
foundation for life after graduation."
The law goes into effect immediately.
[Text from file received from
the
Illinois Office of
Communication and Information] |