Illinois State Representative Charlie Meier joined the Prairie State Wire Podcast to discuss his ongoing fight to reform the state's Department of Human Services (DHS) and protect individuals with disabilities from neglect, abuse, and bureaucratic failure.

A fourth-generation farmer from Okawville and a lifelong resident of Illinois' 109th District, Meier didn't plan to enter politics—but his commitment to ensuring proper care for the state's most vulnerable citizens drew him into public service. Over the years, he has become one of the leading advocates for reforming the state's group home system and holding DHS accountable for systemic mismanagement.