Taxpayer-Funded Healthcare Programs for Illegal Immigrants in Illinois
A state audit found that taxpayers in Illinois paid $1.6 billion for healthcare programs for illegal immigrants since 2020. The audit revealed overspending and mismanagement by Governor JB Pritzker. Federal reimbursement was not sought for eligible services, and some state money was spent on citizens or those eligible for federal programs. Pritzker halted the program in 2023 due to high costs, and later diverted rental assistance money to house illegals. Sanctuary states, including Illinois, planned to offer housing, food, and healthcare to migrants. Pritzker proposed cutting funding for a program to save $330 million.
Key Points
- State audit reveals $1.6 billion spent on healthcare programs for illegal immigrants
- Governor Pritzker criticized for mismanagement and overspending
- Program halted in 2023 due to high costs
- Proposal to cut funding to address budget shortfall
Pros
- Provided healthcare access to illegal immigrants
- Addressed healthcare needs of vulnerable populations
Cons
- Overspending and mismanagement of funds
- Failure to seek federal reimbursement for eligible services
- Spending state money on individuals eligible for federal programs
- Diversion of rental assistance money to house illegals