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HB 1788

DNR-OSLAD ACCESSIBILITY

104th Regular Session Introduced by Neil Anderson and 35 co-sponsors

HB 1788 mandates accessibility standards for Illinois DNR facilities and OSLAD-funded outdoor spaces, expanding recreational access for people with disabilities statewide.

Added as Alternate Co-Sponsor Sen. Chris Balkema
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Bill Summary · HB 1788

Legislative bill overview

HB 1788 addresses accessibility requirements for Illinois' Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Open Space Lands Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) program. The bill appears focused on ensuring that state-managed outdoor spaces and land acquisition initiatives meet accessibility standards for people with disabilities.

Why is this important

Accessible outdoor recreation and open spaces are critical for public health and equity, allowing all residents—regardless of physical ability—to benefit from nature and recreational opportunities. The OSLAD program distributes significant state funding for land conservation and park development, making accessibility requirements at this funding level consequential for projects statewide.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs: Retrofitting existing facilities or requiring accessibility features in new acquisitions may increase project costs and reduce available funds for land purchase or conservation
  • Feasibility concerns: Some natural or outdoor areas may be challenging or prohibitively expensive to make accessible while maintaining ecological integrity or scenic value
  • Funding burden clarification: Unclear whether accessibility improvements must be funded through OSLAD allocations or whether separate funding mechanisms are required, potentially affecting program scope

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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