SB3382 - Technology First Act

• Creates the Technology First Council within the Department of Human Services to advise the Governor and General Assembly on using supportive technology as an alternative to direct support staffing for individuals with developmental disabilities.

• Council composition includes the Secretary of Human Services (chair), representatives from the Illinois Council on Developmental Disabilities and Illinois Assistive Technology Program, an advocacy organization representative, a higher education researcher, two service providers with supportive technology experience, a parent/guardian with technology experience, and an individual with a developmental disability with technology experience.

• Council members serve without compensation but may be reimbursed for travel expenses; the Department provides administrative support.

• Within 6 months of enactment, the Council must develop state policy recommendations, identify service gaps, recommend integration of technology into existing programs, create educational materials, establish benchmarks for monitoring outcomes, and submit a report to the Governor and General Assembly.

• Requires state agencies to comply with Council requests and mandates prioritization of supportive technology that addresses individuals' assessed needs when considering services and supports.