Funds need appropriating
As members of the General Assembly approach the home stretch of the budgeting process, they must consider appropriating federal pass-through and special funds through a standalone budget should there not be an agreement on the 2017 budget. Without the appropriation of this funding, some programs may have to close, putting vulnerable populations at risk of losing homes, jobs, etc.
There are two ways legislators can save many indispensable services as the new fiscal year approaches: release the federal pass-through funds or unlock special funds that aren’t part of the state’s General Revenue Fund.
Federal funds are appropriated by Congress and authorized for spending by the government. These funds are allocated to states to provide services. Our legislators appropriate federal pass-through funds to authorize state government to spend the funds, which represent a multibillion dollar revenue package that supports services and contributes to Illinois’ economy. Not appropriating and authorizing these funds would be irresponsible on the part of lawmakers as these funds are already available for spending.
Special funds are financed by fees that aren’t part of the general fund. For example, Illinois law requires utilities to charge customers a fee to fund the state’s Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program. If the funds are not appropriated for spending, the utilities still send the collected funds to the state. The funds could be used to help people who need utility assistance, instead of sitting idle. Just like federal pass-through funds, special funds don’t add to the structural deficit of the state’s operating budget.
We are appealing to common sense in these very politically divisive times and ask that Illinois legislators appropriate these funds and the governor approve them for spending rather than unnecessarily holding them hostage.
Dalitso Sulamoyo, president & CEO of the Illinois Association for Community Action Agencies
Share your views
Submit letters to the editor via email to suburbanletters@tribpub.com. Please include your name and town of residence for publication. Please include phone number and email address for confirmation. Letters should be no more than 250 words.
