Illinois Budget Cuts: What You Need to Know About State-Funded Health Care

The administration of Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker has decided to terminate healthcare benefits funded by the state affecting approximately 6,000 non-U.S. citizens. This move aims to reduce costs but has drawn criticism from legislators.

Photo: Google

Pritzker’s Administration to Cut State-Funded Health Care for Non-U.S. Citizens

Governor Pritzker is proposing a budget cut of state-funded healthcare benefits targeting non-U.S. citizens residing in the state. According to the Chicago Tribune, individuals with green cards who have not completed a five-year waiting period in the U.S. will no longer enjoy the Health Benefits for Immigrant Adults and Health Benefits for Immigrant Seniors. It is said that this will take effect as early as May 1.

Danna Kelly, Healthcare and Family Services chief of staff said that there will be $13 million in savings if the designated recipients are removed from the two programs. Kelly also said that the 6,000 individuals will be notified of the changes next week. Gov. Pritzker also suggested allocating nearly $200 million toward the two programs through alternative revenue channels.

READ ALSO: Saving $14M Through Healthcare Revamp: Illinois Pritzker Administration To Review Non-Citizen Coverage For Thousands Over 65

Impact of Proposed Health Care Cuts on Non-U.S. Citizens in Illinois

It is a cost-saving measure, but concerns have been raised about the consequences for the affected 6000 individuals. They are those facing language barriers and socioeconomic challenges. State Rep. Norma Hernandez commented that it’s a short-term cost-saving measure, not a long term.

A Latino community group, Healthy Illinois, called the budget cut “immoral and fiscally shortsighted”. Latino Alzheimer’s and Memory Disorders Alliance’s founder, Constantina Mizis, said that it could lead to more serious health issues in the end, because of difficulty in obtaining alternative insurance.

One beneficiary of the target group to be removed is Manal Alabdallah. She is 44 years old from Jordan and has only been living in Illinois for four years. She only speaks Arabic and is using a translator. She said that she couldn’t afford other health insurance in the marketplace.

READ ALSO: $20 California Minimum Wage For Fast Food Workers – A Game-Changer In Labor And Industry Dynamics!