DHS-PUNS DATABASE

Amends the Department of Human Services Act. Removes language requiring the Department of Human Services to maintain a disability services database and instead requires the Department of Human Services to compile and maintain a Prioritization of Urgency of Need for Services (PUNS) database of Illinois residents with an intellectual disability or a developmental disability, including an autism spectrum disorder, and Illinois residents with an intellectual disability or a developmental disability who are also diagnosed with a physical disability or mental illness and are in need of disability services funded by the Department. Provides that the PUNS database shall be used to foster a fair and orderly process for: (i) processing applications for services funded by the Department, (ii) verifying information, (iii) keeping individuals and families who have applied for services informed of available services and anticipated wait times, (iv) determining unmet need, and (v) informing the General Assembly and the Governor of unmet need statewide and within each representative district. Requires the Secretary of Human Services to seek input from specified advisory bodies and committees with regard to the establishment, maintenance, and administration of PUNS. Contains provisions concerning the type of information to be collected and maintained for PUNS; the Department's development of a web-based verification and information-update application; notice of services to individuals listed in the PUNS database; and other matters.