HILLSDALE, Ill. - State Rep. Mike Smiddy, D-Hillsdale, visited the Rock River Gardens Nursing Home on June 15 as part of his effort to remain accessible to older adults and responsive to the needs of constituents with developmental disabilities.
"Spending time with seniors and those with disabilities is one of the most rewarding parts of my job as a public servant, and I'm committed to fighting for their needs as I represent this community in Springfield," Smiddy said. "I was happy to have a chance to visit with area residents with disabilities and understand their needs to more effectively fight for them in the Capitol."
Smiddy met with residents and staff during the visit to discuss current events and suggestions for potential legislation to improve the state. Residents expressed concerns over Governor Rauner's proposed cuts to the state's Human Services budget and the impact of reductions in care. During the spring legislative session, Smiddy supported legislation requiring nursing homes and senior centers to allow residents to use an audio or video recording device to monitor for abuse. The bill passed both houses of the General Assembly with bipartisan support, and Smiddy hopes this will be another tool to make sure that those requiring care are as safe and comfortable as possible.
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