Although the system is in place, improvements are needed. Statistics prove that Illinois has steadily downsized the population of its SDCs over the past ten years, helping those who wanted to move and were ready to go out of state facilities into community homes. These efforts continue. Placement can be reasonably accommodated, taking into account the resources available to the State and the needs of others with mental disabilities. Staffing is under-funded, however, so turnover is great.
More funding is needed to ensure that Illinois stays in compliance.
Illinois may not be in compliance if this under-funding persists. The Olmstead Court's language re states NOT being required to phase out institutions is below. Absent such qualification, it would be inappropriate to remove a patient from the more restrictive setting.