HB 1526

Abstract

Creates the Outdoor Rx Program Act. Creates the Outside Rx Program. Authorizes the Department of Public Health, subject to appropriation, to make grants for outdoor environmental, ecological, agricultural, or other natural resource-based or outdoor-based therapy programs serving the citizens of the State of Illinois. Requires the Department to establish an advisory committee to assist and advise the Department in the development and administration of the Outdoor Rx Program, including developing the form for an application for receipt of a grant. Provides that the Department shall set priorities and develop criteria for the awarding of grants to natural resource-based or outdoor-based therapy programs. Provides criteria for grant eligibility and selection. Provides that the Director of Public Health shall make the final decision on funding a program. Amends the State Finance Act. Creates the Outdoor Rx Program Fund as a special fund in the State treasury. House Floor Amendment No. 1 Replaces everything after the enacting clause. Reinserts the provisions of the introduced bill with the following changes. Provides that the Department of Natural Resources (rather than the Department of Public Health) shall establish an advisory committee to assist and advise the Department of Human Services (rather than the Department of Public Health) in the development and administration of the Outdoor Rx Program. Provides that the Secretary of Human Services (rather than the Director of Public Health) shall set priorities and develop criteria for the award of grants, shall select activities eligible for the awarding of grants, and shall make the final decision on funding a natural resource-based or outdoor-based therapy program. Makes conforming changes.