Illinois taxpayers paid out $1.6 billion for healthcare programs for illegal immigrants since 2020, exceeding estimates by Gov. JB Pritzker's administration. The audit revealed overspending, mismanagement, and eligibility errors in the program.
Key Points
Audit revealed overspending and mismanagement
Errors in eligibility led to incorrect enrollment and loss of federal funds
Program faced proposed cuts due to budget shortfall
Pros
Provided healthcare coverage for illegal immigrants
Highlighted mismanagement and overspending in the program
Cons
Exceeded estimated costs by $1.6 billion
Spent state money on individuals who were actually U.S. citizens or eligible for federal programs
Failed to seek federal reimbursement for eligible services