Passed by both the Illinois House and Senate with broad bipartisan support, SB2038 awaits the Governor’s signature. If signed, the bill would authorize $700 million in dedicated funding to human services providers who have been providing critical services across the state without reimbursement for nearly a year.

The bill is not a full solution to the FY2016 budget impasse. Indeed it only provides 46% of what is generally appropriated for human services. Further action by the General Assembly and the Governor is still needed to ensure human services providers are 100% reimbursed for services as part of a fully funded budget.

Monsignor Boland and the Executive Committee of Catholic Charities’ Board joined the Illinois Catholic Conference of Bishops and wrote letters asking the Governor to sign this bill.

On behalf of Catholic Charities’ clients and all the vulnerable in Illinois, join in urging Governor Rauner to act now and sign SB2038. This action will provide partial but much-needed relief. The Governor’s office number in Springfield is (217) 782-0244.

9 June 2016