Group homes legislation moves to Governor's desk

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Ill. lawmakers OK tougher oversight of group homes

Posted: May 25, 2011 3:48 PM CDT

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) -- Illinois lawmakers are trying to strengthen oversight

of group homes for the disabled after a resident's death.

Under the legislation, abuse allegations would trigger state reviews. New

managers could be brought in to run unsafe homes.

Employees would undergo background checks, and the public would be entitled to

more information.

The measure was sent to the governor Wednesday after unanimous approval by the

Illinois Senate.

It was inspired by 42-year-old McCann, who was beaten to death in January

at a ton home for the mentally disabled.

Two employees were charged with killing McCann because he stole food. They have

pleaded not guilty to murder.

Records show Illinois officials knew residents had been abused at the network of

group homes that included McCann's facility.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. .)