ICIRR 2024 Policy Platform
This year, members of the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights advocated for a policy platform centered on winning resources for essential programs that empower families to thrive, regardless of their immigration status.
Updated 06-06-24
On May 29, 2024, both houses of Illinois General Assembly passed a state budget that reflects several of ICIRR's platform priorities (Read our statement to learn more).
These priorities include:
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$38 million for the Immigrant Services Line Item;
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$50 million to create a new state Child Tax Credit;
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$629 million to fund Health Benefits for Immigrant Adults and Seniors programs;
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$182 million to fund shelter and services for southern border arrivals;
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Reform of the retailer's sales tax discount to generate over $160 million in new revenue every year for essential programs.
But while there were many steps in the right direction this year, our work is not done. Our coalition is going to continue fighting for resources that meet the needs of all Illinoisans, whether they have lived here for months or for generations.
ICIRR members will continue to advocate for:
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Increasing immigrant services funding that meets the need of our growing communities;
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Preserving health coverage for existing HBIA/S participants and reopening the programs to new applicants;
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Reopening the Victims of Trafficking, Torture, and Other Serious Crimes program to all previously eligible Illinoisans;
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Expanding eligibility and resources for the state Child Tax Credit;
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Creating a guaranteed income program for Illinois residents;
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Winning new revenue sources that fund essential programs for the long term.
Email your state legislators TODAY to thank them for passing a budget that includes resources for essential programs that empower ALL Illinois families to thrive, and ask them to continue pushing for new revenue solutions and critical resources for essential programs.
