News

Pritzker signs sweeping legislation package including FY26 budget, FOID reforms, and Medicaid expansion

Tthe Fiscal Year 2026 Budget increases funding for K-12 schools and higher education, while making cuts to programs for non-citizen healthcare and group home support staff. Photo: Metro Services


SPRINGFIELD, IL (Chambana Today) – Governor JB Pritzker signed a series of major bills into law Monday, enacting sweeping changes across Illinois’ fiscal policy, firearm ownership rules, Medicaid services, and consumer protections.

Among the most notable laws is the Fiscal Year 2026 Budget (SB2510), which increases funding for K-12 schools and higher education, while making controversial cuts to programs for non-citizen healthcare and group home support staff.

The governor also approved HB850, reforming the FOID card revocation process. Previously, individuals deemed a “clear and present danger” could lose their Firearm Owner’s Identification without transparency or recourse. The new law expedites appeals and gives individuals access to the data behind the decision.

In health policy, SB2437 expands Medicaid coverage. Starting July 1, 2025, hospitals must allow certified doulas to assist Medicaid patients during childbirth, and screening for tardive dyskinesia will be required for those on antipsychotic medication. Over-the-counter choline supplements for pregnant people will also be covered beginning in 2026.

Pritzker also signed HB742, delaying the controversial Interchange Fee Prohibition Act to 2026, and HB2755, revising various tax laws and tightening regulations on tobacco sales to minors.

“The legislation signed today reflects our commitment to fiscal responsibility, transparency, and compassionate public policy,” Pritzker said in a statement. “We’re making government work better for the people of Illinois.”

Other bills signed include reforms to the Hospital Assessment Program (HB2771), bond authorization changes (HB3374), and multiple transparency and accessibility provisions in SB2456.

Recent Headlines

2 days ago in Trending, World

King Charles III says his cancer treatment is being reduced as he promotes benefits of screening

King Charles III said Friday that early diagnosis and treatment will allow doctors to reduce his cancer treatment in the new year as he encouraged others to take advantage of screening programs that can detect the disease early when it is easiest to treat.

2 days ago in Sports, Trending

Sherrone Moore charged with stalking, home invasion after being fired as Michigan football coach

Fired University of Michigan football coach Sherrone Moore "barged his way" into the apartment of a woman with whom he had been having an affair and threatened to kill himself after she reported the relationship to the school and he lost his job, prosecutors said Friday.

3 days ago in Lifestyle, Trending

Experts share their top tips to save money this holiday season

From gifts to travel plans to grocery shopping, costs can pile up and become overwhelming, especially in a difficult economic environment. Holiday shopping can bring joy, but it's important to stick to a budget and avoid going into debt, said shopping expert Trae Bodge.