DHS-NEST PROGRAM
Sponsored By: Kelly M. Cassidy (Democratic)
In Committee
Summary
Provides that the Act may be referred to as the Illinois Newborn Equity Support Transfer (NEST) Program Act. Amends the Department of Human Services Act. Requires the Department of Human Services to establish and administer, subject to appropriations, the Illinois Newborn Equity Support Transfer (NEST) Program to provide direct cash assistance to eligible participants by July 1, 2026. Defines "participant" to mean any individual who gives birth in Illinois while enrolled in or eligible for Medicaid through Moms and Babies. Permits the Department to adopt any rules necessary to implement the NEST Program. Provides that program participants shall receive a $1,500 lump sum payment in or around the third trimester of pregnancy, prior to delivery; and a $500 monthly cash payment for the first 6 months following delivery. Requires the Department to submit reports to the General Assembly on a biennial basis that summarizes (1) the number of program participants and distribution across the State, (2) outcomes related to maternal and child health, housing stability, and economic security, or other outcomes identified by the Department in collaboration with stakeholders, and (3) recommendations for program improvements or additional populations beyond Medicaid enrollment to include as participants. Provides that cash disbursements made to participants under the NEST Program shall be considered "guaranteed income" as described in the Hospital Uninsured Patient Discount Act for purposes of determining eligibility for assistance under the Illinois Public Aid Code. Effective immediately.
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Bill Overview
No Economic Impacts Identified for this Bill
Sponsors & Cosponsors
Sponsor
Kelly M. Cassidy
Democratic • House
Cosponsors
Camille Y. Lilly
Democratic • House
Laura Faver Dias
Democratic • House
Maura Hirschauer
Democratic • House
Nabeela Syed
Democratic • House
Roll Call Votes
No roll call votes available for this bill.
Actions Timeline
Added Co-Sponsor Rep. Camille Y. Lilly
5/8/2026HouseAdded Co-Sponsor Rep. Maura Hirschauer
5/8/2026HouseAdded Co-Sponsor Rep. Laura Faver Dias
5/8/2026HouseAdded Co-Sponsor Rep. Nabeela Syed
4/2/2026HouseRule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
3/27/2026HouseAssigned to Appropriations-Health and Human Services Committee
3/18/2026HouseReferred to Rules Committee
2/10/2026HouseFirst Reading
2/10/2026HouseFiled with the Clerk by Rep. Kelly M. Cassidy
2/5/2026House
Bill Text
Introduced
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