Rep. Manley Launches Neurodiversity Legislative Advisory Committee

ROMEOVILLE, Ill. – State Representative Natalie Manley (D-Joliet), in her ongoing commitment to inclusive governance, launched the inaugural Neurodiversity Legislative Advisory Committee (NeuroLAC).

The monthly gathering intends to serve as a dedicated forum for individuals who identify as neurodiverse, their families, and service providers to directly engage with legislators and share their invaluable insights for future policy development.

This follows Manley’s initiative forming the Illinois Legislators Neurodiversity Caucus, which launched in April. Members from the Illinois House of Representatives and Senate joined Manley — from both sides of the aisle — to advocate and responsibly legislate for Illinoisans who are neurodiverse.

NeuroLAC is the latest addition to Manley's established series of Legislative Advisory Committees (LACs). Under Manley’s leadership, previous LACs have shaped legislation that specifically addresses issues that were identified during the committee meetings.

Manley’s previously existing LACs include the Retirees Legislative Advisory Committee (RLAC), and the Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Legislative Advisory Committee (GrandLAC). Additionally, Manley restarted her Women’s LAC, which had robust participation prior to Covid.

These committees underscore Rep. Manley's dedication to ensuring a broad spectrum of voices inform the legislative process.

The inaugural NeuroLAC meeting, held at the Joliet Junior College Romeoville Campus saw many participants. The attendees openly shared their experiences and proposals. Distinguished guests included State Representative Dagmara Avelar (D-Romeoville) and State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood), highlighting the cross-chamber commitment to this critical initiative.

Discussions spanned a wide array of pressing issues affecting the neurodiverse community including, access to service, early childhood education, systemic gaps in care, employment and awareness.

“The Neurodiversity Legislative Advisory Committee provides a direct line for those living in a neurodiverse community to share their lived experiences and legislative ideas,” Manley said. “Their voices are powerful and essential to crafting effective, compassionate legislation. I am deeply grateful to everyone who attended and shared their insights. Their contributions are invaluable as we work to build a more inclusive Illinois.”

This direct pipeline from community input to legislative action ensures that policies are grounded in the real-world needs and experiences of the neurodiverse community.

NeuroLAC is scheduled to meet monthly on the third Tuesday of each month at the JJC Romeoville Campus, an RSVP is required to attend each meeting. To learn more about participation, please call/text Rep. Manley’s District Office at (815) 725-2741 or email at repmanley@gmail.com.