Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – Lawmakers from both parties and both chambers are part of an “Illinois Neurodiversity Caucus.”

“It’s a very obscure diagnosis. If you know one person with autism, you know one person with autism,” said State Rep. Natalie Manley (D-Joliet), who has an autistic grandchild. “Everybody is so different, and I think that’s part of the confusion.”

At a news conference this week, Manley and co-chairs emphasized four issues: support, access, research, and education.

State Sen. Meg Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood), a former special education teacher, said, “Our neurodiversity caucus is trying to grow community knowledge of resources as well as increase training for educators and health care providers. We are also working to expand access to therapies and evaluations and support neurodiverse individuals in all aspects of their lives from birth to adulthood.”

“I want a future where families do not have to wonder what will happen next, and where every individual is given a chance to live a full and meaningful life,” said State Rep. Nicole La Ha (R-Homer Glen), whose daughter has cerebral palsy. “I am honored to serve in the General Assembly and bring forth the real experiences of families like ours.”

ADHD and dyslexia are also examples of neurodivergent conditions.