Illinois’ Proposed FY2027 State Budget: What It Means for Our Community

April 2026

CASL is closely monitoring Illinois’ proposed Fiscal Year 2027 budget and its impact on the communities we serve.

On February 18, Governor J.B. Pritzker introduced a $56.032 billion budget, a modest 1.6% increase from the previous year. While this proposal maintains funding for many essential programs, it comes at a time of growing uncertainty due to federal and state funding changes and increasing demand for services.

Public programs are funded by both the U.S. federal government and the State of Illinois. These investments support essential services that help individuals and families meet their basic needs and build long-term stability.

Public funding helps support programs such as:

• Childcare assistance
• Food assistance (SNAP, WIC)
• Health insurance (Medicaid and Medicare)
• Energy assistance (LIHEAP)
• Job training and workforce development programs
• Education programs, including Head Start, ESL, and after-school initiatives
• Senior and immigrant support services

Many of these programs are jointly funded by federal and state governments, meaning they rely on shared resources to operate effectively. Examples include SNAP, Medicaid, LIHEAP, and childcare assistance.

Many of CASL’s programs depend on both state and federal funding. If the federal government reduces funding, the state government often does not have enough money to replace it. This can lead to:

• Fewer services
• Reduced benefits
• Stricter eligibility

Understanding how state and federal funding are related helps you know where changes are coming from, why services may change, and how to stay informed.

For the FY2027 state budget, here is what you need to know.

Several programs that support CASL clients are seeing continued or increased investment, including:

• Community Care Program (support for older adults)
• Preschool for All and early childhood programs
• Home Visiting services

These investments are important as more families, seniors and immigrants rely on these services to meet basic needs.

At the same time, other key programs are facing funding reductions including:

• Workforce development programs (WIOA)
• Energy assistance (LIHEAP)

Programs like the Childcare Assistance Program (CCAP) and Early Intervention programs face ongoing funding changes, strains and increased demand.

Even if programs continue, you may notice changes such as:

• Fewer available spots
• Longer wait times
• Increased demand for services
• Changes in eligibility or access

These impacts may happen gradually over time rather than all at once.

To address these challenges and protect the essential programs our communities rely on, CASL is actively engaging with policymakers and advocating for sustainable, equitable solutions.

You can help by joining us for our Advocacy Day on April 15 at the Illinois State Capitol in Springfield, where our community will discuss funding priorities and educate elected officials on the importance of these vital programs and the impact they have on the communities we serve.

Our priorities include:

• Funding for children with special needs and after-school programs
• Protecting health and human services funding
• Immigration justice

Our advocacy agenda is rooted in one goal: ensuring every community member can thrive, not just survive.

The Illinois General Assembly must pass the FY2027 budget by May 31, 2026, with final decisions shaping what resources will be available in the year ahead.

CASL will continue to advocate for equitable funding, keep our community informed, and ensure that no one is left behind.

CASL is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. All content is educational and nonpartisan. CASL does not endorse or oppose any candidate, political party, or ballot measure.