As the state budget gridlock continues into its second month, on August 4 the Illinois Senate took action to authorize the appropriation of nearly $5 billion in federal funds to programs that provide meals for senior citizens and supplemental nutrition programs for women and children, help crime victims,  and provide community and rehabilitation services for disabled individuals, among others.

The state is responsible for administering many programs mandated or funded by the federal government. Although funding for these programs has been approved at the federal level, without appropriations authority the Comptroller is unable to cut checks to agencies for these programs. As a result, lacking funding, many social service agencies have said they will be forced to cut services or eliminate programs.

Senate Bill 2042 would allow the Comptroller to spend those dollars and ensure the providers receive the federal funding they rely on. Having been approved by the Senate, the measure now advances to House lawmakers for consideration. If approved in the House, the legislation would move to the Governor’s desk.