On May 23, the Illinois General Assembly wrapped up a historic session in Springfield, passing a state budget that provides some aid to vital services and communities that have been left particularly vulnerable during the COVID-19 pandemic. Thank you to members of the General Assembly and their staff for getting it done in the midst of this public health crisis.
The budget that was passed relies on a $5 billion line of credit from the U.S. Federal Reserve, which the legislature plans on repaying with additional state relief funds from future federal legislation, yet to be passed. In addition to the uncertainty about revenue, the budget was passed in the shadow of many other unknowns: no one knows the full economic and public health impact of the pandemic; it is uncertain whether voters will approve the fair tax ballot measure in November, which will provide much-needed additional revenue on an ongoing basis; and much could change from the outcome of the presidential election.
The budget, however, increased appropriations in a number of key areas to help better position the state to respond to health care needs and economic hardship caused by the pandemic. We believe that budgets are moral documents and, therefore, we applaud state leaders for continuing to prioritize state agencies that provide our social safety net and focusing additional investments on health and healing, economic opportunity, and safety and justice.
Health and Healing
The budget expanded Medicaid coverage to include low-income seniors who were previously ineligible due to their immigration status. We commend members and our Healthy Illinois coalition partners on this new reform, which is groundbreaking; no other state has provided health care coverage to undocumented seniors.
In addition, investments were made to support community health centers so that they can remain open and continue providing vital services. Funding was also increased for COVID-19 testing, local health departments, and staff to process Medicaid applications. Finally, emergency rules were codified so that Medicaid coverage can be extended for up to one year after the crisis ends.
Economic Opportunity
The budget provided for meaningful investments in affordable housing, rental assistance, and mortgage assistance. It slightly increased funding for supportive housing services and homeless youth services. In addition, funding was provided for immigrant families who are struggling to make ends meet during the pandemic. We thank members and our advocate partners on securing that assistance for families.
Safety and Justice
The budget preserved programs that support people reentering communities from the criminal legal system, and provide mental health and employment services.
We urge the Governor to sign a budget that maintains the values presented in the current bill. And while many other policy reforms we were pursuing were set aside, we look forward to continuing to work on them together to ensure equity and opportunity for all.
