Illinois § 15

§ 15.

Illinois AgrAbility Program established. (a) Subject to appropriation, the Department, in cooperation with the University of Illinois Extension, shall contract with a non-profit disability service provider or other entity that assists farmers with disabilities, to establish and administer the Illinois AgrAbility Program in order to assist individuals who are engaged in farming or an agriculture-related activity and who have been affected by disability. (b) Services provided by the Illinois AgrAbility Program shall include, but are not limited to, the following: (1) A toll-free information and referral hotline. (2) The establishment of networks with local agricultural and rehabilitation professionals. (3) The coordination of community resources. (4) The establishment of networks with local agricultural and health care professionals to help identify individuals who may be eligible for assistance and to help identify the best method of providing that assistance. (5) The provision of information on and assistance regarding equipment modification. (6) Job restructuring. (7) The provision of information on and assistance regarding the development of alternative jobs. In order to provide these services, the Illinois AgrAbility Program shall cooperate and share resources, facilities, and employees with AgrAbility Unlimited, the University of Illinois Extension, and the Office of Rehabilitation Services of the Department of Human Services. The costs of the program, including any related administrative expenses from the Department, may be paid from any funds specifically appropriated or otherwise available to the Department for that purpose. The Department may pay the costs of the Illinois AgrAbility program by making grants to the operating entity, by making grants directly to service providers, by paying reimbursements for services provided, or in any other appropriate manner. (c) The Department has the power to enter into any agreements that are necessary and appropriate for the establishment, operation, and funding of the Illinois AgrAbility Program. The Department may adopt any rules that it determines necessary for the establishment, operation, and funding of the Illinois AgrAbility Program. (Source: P.A. 99-143, eff. 7-27-15.)