Aquino leads new law to strengthen Medicaid system, improve reimbursement

SPRINGFIELD — Illinois will boost reimbursement for critical health services supporting vulnerable children and families, thanks to a new law led by State Senator Omar Aquino aimed at strengthening the Medicaid system.

“In Illinois, we are advancing equity by investing in the residents and health care providers who deserve a better system that meets their needs,” said Aquino (D-Chicago). “These much-needed rate increases will support safety net hospitals, children’s health centers, mental health providers and programs that ensure the health and well-being of vulnerable children and families across our state.”

Read more: Aquino leads new law to strengthen Medicaid system, improve reimbursement

Villivalam announces historic $41 billion multi-year infrastructure plan

MCCOOK – State Senator Ram Villivalam announced the launch of a historic multi-year infrastructure program aimed to build and repair infrastructure across all 102 counties in Illinois, continuing the transformative impact of the Rebuild Illinois initiative.

“It is imperative that we continue to invest in our transportation system – a vital resource for all communities across our state,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago). “With these new investments, we are working to ensure that everyone has the ability to access health care services, economic opportunities, visit with loved ones and much more.”

The record $41.42 billion multi-year program is partly attributed to the early engineering and planning efforts of Rebuild Illinois and the federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021, which have spurred increased construction activity. The previous record was $40.99 billion in 2023.

Read more: Villivalam announces historic $41 billion multi-year infrastructure plan

Senate Democrats applaud new grant funding for local chambers of commerce

Members of the Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus helped secure funding for local chambers of commerce that will go toward supporting businesses and helping them recover from the lingering economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The State of Illinois’ B2B Local Chambers program is critical to helping local chambers of commerce continue moving in a positive trajectory after the devastating effects of the pandemic,” said State Senator Elgie Sims, Jr. (D-Chicago). “Illinois is committed to supporting communities across the state through grant funding programs such as B2B and beyond.”

Administered by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, grants through the Back to Business Local Chambers program will be used by chambers to market and develop localities, provide small businesses with professional development opportunities and support small businesses and entrepreneurs while bolstering economic development.

Read more: Senate Democrats applaud new grant funding for local chambers of commerce

Aquino secures new child tax credit for Illinois families

SPRINGFIELD — Under a measure championed by State Senator Omar Aquino, working parents in Illinois will be able to claim a state-level child tax credit on their income taxes starting next year.

“Parents shouldn’t have to struggle to provide basic necessities to their children,” said Aquino (D-Chicago). “The child tax credit will help families put money toward things that are becoming even less affordable – like groceries and school supplies – during these inflationary times. The rising cost of living makes it even more vital to get this economic relief to folks who need it.”

House Bill 4951 – the Fiscal Year 2025 revenue package – includes $50 million for a new statewide child tax credit, something Aquino has been fighting for over the past several years. Beginning next year, parents eligible for the Illinois Earned Income Tax Credit with at least one child under age 12 will receive the child tax credit – equal to 20% of the state’s EITC in 2025 and 40% of the EITC in 2026.

Read more: Aquino secures new child tax credit for Illinois families