East Central Reporter

The Illinois General Assembly is set to convene for its fall veto session, where lawmakers will address Governor Pritzker's vetoes of bills enacted during the spring session and consider new legislative business. This session provides an opportunity for minority Republicans to have a voice in shaping new legislation.

During the fall veto session, which begins on October 24 and concludes on November 9, the General Assembly will review and deliberate on various issues. The House has already posted its veto session calendar online, ensuring transparency and accessibility for the public.

One of the significant topics that will be discussed is the cost of state health benefits for undocumented immigrants. Illinois provides free healthcare benefits for undocumented immigrant adults ages 42 and above, as well as healthcare benefits for undocumented immigrant children. This program was enacted by Democrat supermajorities during the 2020 pandemic-shortened special session and expanded in subsequent years.

However, concerns have been raised about the rising costs of this program. The Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) recently revealed that the estimated cost of healthcare benefits for undocumented immigrants has reached $1.1 billion. Since undocumented immigrants are ineligible for federal Medicaid match, the state is solely responsible for funding these services. To address the growing costs, HFS has announced a temporary pause on new enrollees in the Health Benefits for Immigrant Seniors program.

Despite this pause, the HFS has yet to implement co-pays and other cost-sharing measures, leading to uncertainties about containing costs. An analysis from September 2023 estimates that the program will cost $831 million in FY 2024, exceeding the allocated amount by $280 million. These figures are based on an expected enrollment of nearly 69,000 individuals.

Representative Brad Halbrook expressed his concerns about the financial burden of providing free healthcare benefits to undocumented immigrants, especially when healthcare costs for citizens are skyrocketing. He emphasized the need for fiscal responsibility in allocating taxpayer funds.

In a glimmer of hope, Governor J.B. Pritzker has expressed his support for extending Illinois' Invest in Kids tax credit scholarship program. He stated that he would sign legislation to extend the program if it reaches his desk. Representative Halbrook also expressed his optimism about the program, highlighting its positive impact on students across the state.

Representative Halbrook's office is available to assist constituents with any issues they may face when interacting with state agencies. He encourages individuals to reach out for help or schedule an appointment to discuss their concerns.

As Illinois prepares for redistricting, Representative Halbrook's new district boundaries have been published for public viewing. This process occurs every ten years and ensures fair representation for state and federal legislative districts.

The fall veto session presents an opportunity for lawmakers to address important issues and make decisions that will impact the lives of Illinois residents. With the cost of healthcare benefits for undocumented immigrants at the forefront, fiscal responsibility and the well-being of citizens should be prioritized.

To learn more, click on this link: https://rephalbrook.com/2023/10/23/update-from-the-desk-of-rep-brad-halbrook/