Kane County Reporter

An audit conducted by the Illinois Auditor General has revealed that the cost of health benefits for undocumented immigrants in Illinois has significantly exceeded initial estimates. The Health Benefits for Immigrant Seniors and Adults programs (HBIS and HBIA), also known as Medicaid for non-citizens, have already cost the state over $1.6 billion, with projections indicating a total expenditure of $2.2 billion by the end of Fiscal Year 2025.

The report, released on February 26, highlighted that Governor Pritzker's administration underestimated both the cost and enrollment numbers for these programs. In response to this revelation, Governor Pritzker proposed ending the HBIA program for adults aged 42-64 in his Fiscal Year 2026 budget while maintaining coverage for those aged 65 and older under the HBIS program.

House Republicans have voiced strong opposition to these expenditures. House Minority Leader Tony McCombie stated, "We could not afford it then, and we cannot afford it now," calling for an immediate shutdown of the program to protect taxpayers. Assistant Minority Leader C.D. Davidsmeyer expressed shock at the audit findings and reiterated calls to end taxpayer-funded health benefits for illegal immigrants.

Representative Amy Elik noted that the audit results were alarming and emphasized the need to work better for taxpayers. Meanwhile, Representative Dennis Tipsword criticized the unsustainable nature of providing free healthcare benefits to undocumented immigrants.

In a separate development aimed at supporting working families in Illinois, House Republicans introduced a legislative package designed to alleviate financial burdens. This package includes measures such as eliminating startup fees for new businesses, expanding educational opportunities through tax credits and grants, and creating income tax deductions related to education expenses.

Rep. Brad Stephens remarked on this initiative: "With this bill package, we can provide tangible financial relief for hardworking, taxpaying Illinoisans." The package also seeks to address workforce shortages in trades and manufacturing sectors by facilitating training opportunities.

As discussions begin on the Fiscal Year 2026 State Budget, House Republicans remain firm against any attempts to raise taxes on working families and seniors. Deputy Minority Leader Norine Hammond criticized excessive spending trends since 2019 under Governor JB Pritzker's administration.

In other news related to healthcare coverage in Illinois, Health Alliance announced plans to exit non-Medicare markets by January 1, 2026. This decision will affect approximately 280,000 residents primarily located in Central Illinois.

Lastly, former Governor Jim Edgar shared his diagnosis of pancreatic cancer with Illinoisan citizens who fondly remember his leadership from 1991-1999. He expressed gratitude for their support as he begins treatment.