Bill > HR0151

This resolution urges the State of Illinois to address critical issues in the human services sector by increasing reimbursement rates, state grants, contracts, and overhead allowances to support essential service providers. The resolution highlights the current crisis in the human services workforce, noting that state funding for these services has decreased by 25% over 27 years, leading to low wages, high turnover, and challenges in recruiting workers. It specifically calls for funding that enables human service employers to provide living wages with cost-of-living adjustments, without requiring increased caseloads or reduced services. The resolution emphasizes the importance of these services, which include childcare, mental health support, housing assistance, and support for marginalized populations, and acknowledges the systemic issues of racism and sexism in the sector. Notably, the resolution points out that many human services workers are highly educated (over 70% have at least a bachelor's degree) yet struggle to earn a living wage. The document calls for copies of the resolution to be delivered to various state leaders and department heads to draw attention to these critical workforce and funding challenges.

Health and Social Services

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocNum=151&GAID=18&DocTypeID=HR&SessionID=114&GA=104