August 7, 2026—The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) announced July 23 that they would be closing units and cutting services at Choate Developmental Center—a decision made without input from the nurses who have upheld excellent care at the facility for decades. The Illinois Nurses Association (INA) has grave concerns about the State’s plan, which has the potential to disrupt patient care, separate residents from their families and communities, threaten union jobs, and reduce access to care for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities living in Southern Illinois.  

The INA has filed a demand to bargain over these changes and is waiting on IDHS to provide answers about the timing and impact of their plan. In this period of uncertainty, we will continue to advocate for our members—who deserve respect, transparency, and timely answers about their future—and the community that depends on this facility.