Rockford Sun

Illinois is currently facing a $3.2 billion budget deficit, prompting Senate Republicans to call for transparency regarding taxpayer money spent on programs for non-citizens. On February 5, at a press conference in Springfield, Illinois Senate Republican Whip Jil Tracy, Senator Dave Syverson, and Senator Li Arellano Jr. announced the reintroduction of legislation aimed at ensuring accountability in state spending.

Senator Syverson emphasized the need for scrutiny over expenditures on non-citizen programs: “Pouring over $1 billion annually into programs for non-citizens—and that’s just the spending we can track—is reckless and unsustainable, especially when families are struggling to pay their bills.” He added that Illinois families should not be asked to sacrifice more for these programs.

Governor JB Pritzker has expanded funding for non-citizen services such as healthcare and housing since taking office. This initiative aligns with his goal of making Illinois "the most welcoming state in the nation." However, this expansion occurs amid concerns about high taxes and rising living costs faced by residents.

In response to inquiries from Senate Republicans, the administration has yet to provide detailed cost breakdowns despite Governor Pritzker's use of executive powers through 30 monthly emergency declarations over the past two and a half years. These declarations have allowed fund reallocations without legislative oversight.

Senator Arellano stressed the importance of transparency: “Transparency is the first step in restoring accountability and putting the needs of Illinois families back at the forefront.” He urged Governor Pritzker to provide clear information on expenditures.

Senate Bill 1699 proposes that the Illinois Department of Human Services submit an annual report detailing state spending on non-citizen services. This report would cover various state entities and include specifics such as total expenditures, appropriations, transfers among line-item appropriations, impacted populations, funding sources, and contracts awarded for service provision.

The bill also mandates future budgets include comprehensive accounts of proposed spending on non-citizen populations. With budget discussions set to follow Governor Pritzker’s annual address on February 18, understanding migrant-related expenses is deemed crucial by legislators.

Senator Tracy stated: “This legislation will put an end to Governor Pritzker’s ability to hide the true cost of his non-citizen welfare programs behind emergency declarations.” She asserted that taxpayers deserve clarity regarding their financial contributions.

Senate Bill 1699 aims to enhance transparency and restore public trust by providing Illinois taxpayers with insights into how their funds are allocated.