LEMONT, IL – Years before she took the oath of office, State Representative Nicole La Ha (R-Lemont) was simply a mother searching for playgrounds and public spaces where her daughter could belong. Today, that journey has resulted in a new Illinois law.
“Before I was a legislator, I was a mom trying to help my daughter experience the world like every other child,” Rep. La Ha said. “Watching this bill become law is incredibly meaningful because I know what it represents for so many families.”
Gov. Pritzker has signed Senate Bill 3016, legislation sponsored in the House by State Representative Nicole La Ha (R-Lemont), encouraging communities seeking Open Space Lands Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) grants to incorporate accessibility and universal design into park and recreation projects.
The legislation reflects an issue that has shaped Rep. La Ha’s life both personally and professionally. Her daughter, Ashlynn, lives with cerebral palsy, giving her firsthand experience with the barriers many families encounter in parks and public spaces.
Long before serving in the General Assembly, La Ha helped establish Homer Glen’s Ability Awareness Committee, the community’s first advisory body focused on improving the lives of residents with disabilities. She later used her platform as Mrs. America to advocate nationwide for inclusive playgrounds and accessible communities, and testified before Congress alongside the Cerebral Palsy Foundation in support of greater resources for families living with cerebral palsy.
SB 3016 was carried in the Senate by Senator Don DeWitte (R-St. Charles).
“This legislation has always been about creating communities where every child has the opportunity to play, connect, and belong,” Rep. La Ha said. “I’m grateful to everyone who helped make this day possible, and I hope this law encourages more communities to build spaces that welcome every family.”
Rep. Nicole La Ha proudly serves the people of Illinois’ 82nd District.
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