Cook County residents soon will receive $93.94 million in critical funding for LIHEAP, winter road maintenance and local shares of video gaming and motor fuel tax revenue.
“I voted so that vulnerable residents and seniors could receive the energy assistance they deserve,” said State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago, 3). “Hopefully Governor Rauner will stand with us and sign this bill so our local communities can receive critical funding.”
The Senate approved legislation today to free up gas tax money for Cook County residents and recipients of LIHEAP. According to last year’s estimates, Cook County received $93.94 million in gas tax dollars, while the state received $275.53 million.
Senate Bill 2039 also includes funding for the following:
• $1 billion to the Lottery for prizes
• $165 million for home heating bill assistance
• $77 million for 911-related costs
• $45 million to the Dept. of Revenue so local governments can receive their share of video gaming proceeds
• $43 million to the Community College Board for career and technical education activities
• $31 million to IDOT to purchase road salt
• $28 million for nursing home licensing and inspections
• $3.1 million to the Illinois Department of Public Health for the Tobacco Quitline
• $2.5 million for breast cancer services and research
The bill now goes to the governor’s desk to be signed into law. While Gov. Bruce Rauner stated he supports this plan, he vetoed similar measures in June when the budget impasse began.
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