State Representative Tony McCombie (IL) | Representative Tony M. McCombie (R) 89th District
State Representative Tony McCombie (IL) | Representative Tony M. McCombie (R) 89th District
The Illinois Auditor General has released an audit report revealing that the state has spent over $1.6 billion on health benefits for undocumented immigrants, far exceeding initial cost estimates by Governor Pritzker's administration. The audit, which covers fiscal years 2021 to 2023, shows that costs were underestimated significantly.
Governor Pritzker recently proposed ending the Health Benefits for Immigrant Adults (HBIA) program for those aged 42-64 in his Fiscal Year 2026 budget. Despite spending nearly $1 billion on this age group, costs exceeded estimates by up to 286%. However, the Health Benefits for Immigrant Seniors (HBIS) program will continue for those aged 65 and older.
The expansion of healthcare coverage to noncitizen immigrants began in December 2020 with HBIS and expanded further in May and July 2022 to include younger adults under HBIA. House Republicans have called for an end to taxpayer-funded health benefits for illegal immigrants, citing excessive costs and reports of fraud.
In a separate initiative, House Republicans introduced a legislative package aimed at easing financial burdens on working families in Illinois. This includes measures encouraging entrepreneurship, supporting technical skill-building, and providing tax credits and deductions related to education and gratuities.
Rep. Brad Stephens emphasized the need to reduce financial pressures on middle-class residents amid economic uncertainty and tax increases. The package includes bills like Rep. Kyle Moore’s Reducing Barriers to Start Act (HB 1351), which aims to eliminate startup fees for new businesses.
Education-focused proposals within the package seek to address workforce shortages in trades and manufacturing sectors. Rep. Mike Coffey’s Reinvest in Future Technical Careers Act (HB 1729) offers tax credits for contributions toward scholarships at technical academies.
As budget negotiations begin, House Republicans remain opposed to any tax increases on working families and seniors, criticizing Democratic spending habits since Governor JB Pritzker took office.
Upcoming events include office hours later this month where constituents can discuss legislative issues or state agency concerns. Additionally, there is an announcement of an annual Spring Photo Contest encouraging residents to capture the essence of northwest Illinois during springtime.
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