Ness Bill Strengthening Savings for Illinoisans With Disabilities Sent to Governor

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Working to improve disability savings and services, state Rep. Suzanne Ness, D-Carpentersville, is sending a bill to the governor for consideration promoting access to ABLE account cost-saving benefits for Illinoisans with disabilities. 

 

“ABLE accounts act just like a college-savings account and allow families to start planning for medical and other expenses relating to their child’s disability as soon as possible. Many families struggle to find adequate connections and resources that fit their child’s needs—ABLE accounts fill that gap,” said Ness. 

 

Ness’ House Bill 4620 seeks to connect Illinoisans who have disabilities to cost-saving programs early on in their lives, preferably as soon as a patient receives a diagnosis. The measure focuses on promoting ABLE accounts, which stands for “Achieving a Better Life Experience,” and helps those who have disabilities save for critical expenses, including home adaptations, like ramps, or medical devices necessary for their health and safety. By expanding access to ABLE savings program information, young families and their children can seamlessly plan and save for school, housing and other expenses, as well as earn social security and tax benefits. 

 

“I’m thrilled to see this measure at the very final steps of being signed into law. ABLE accounts have helped people across Illinois save and budget for expenses that can be untenable for even well-off families,” said Ness. “This bill ensures every Illinois family has the information needed to plan ahead and plan safely for themselves or loved ones who have a disability.” 

 

The bipartisan measure passed unanimously through both House and Senate chambers and awaits the governor’s signature.