Will County Legislators Briefed on Potential Local Impacts

Federal legislation making sweeping cuts to Medicaid and food assistance programs could significantly impact Will County residents and services, county legislators learned during their monthly update from Washington lobbyists on June 3.

The House narrowly passed a reconciliation bill in May by a 215-214 vote that would extend Trump-era tax cuts while imposing steep reductions to safety net programs. The legislation expands work requirements for Medicaid beneficiaries from the current 18-55 age range to 18-65, and requires all states to contribute more to their Medicaid programs.

“The fundamental policy driver helping to achieve this end has been the federal Renewable Fuel Standard,” said federal lobbyist KP during the Legislative Committee meeting, explaining how various federal programs interconnect with local priorities.

Committee members expressed particular concern about how the changes could affect Will County’s health services and vulnerable populations.

Medicaid Changes Raise Local Concerns

Member Julie Berkowicz questioned the scope of the proposed work requirements, seeking clarification on what changes residents could expect. The federal lobbyists explained that expanded work requirements would include community service as an alternative to traditional employment for program eligibility.

“I think it would be helpful if it was more specific because then we can actually understand what the actual changes are,” Berkowicz said during the meeting.

Will County Health Department services could face significant impacts given the department’s annual budget of roughly $42 million and its role serving low-income populations through various federal programs.

SNAP Program Also Targeted

The reconciliation bill also targets the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) with similar work requirement expansions. Committee member Mica Freeman raised specific questions about provisions that would cut children off SNAP benefits at age seven, with exemptions for married couples versus single parents.

The federal team promised to provide detailed clarification on these provisions, acknowledging the complexity of the 4,000-page bill.

Senate Modifications Expected

The legislation now moves to the Senate, where more moderate Republican senators are expected to push for modifications to the most restrictive elements. The lobbyists indicated that deficit hawk senators want even deeper cuts, while moderates oppose extreme reductions to programs like Medicaid and SNAP.

Senate leadership wants the bill passed by July 4th, with the full package reaching the president’s desk by the beginning of August recess.

Local Federal Agenda Approved

The committee also reviewed and discussed Will County’s Federal Agenda for Fiscal Year 2026, which outlines priority funding areas including transportation, public safety, and community development programs.

The agenda emphasizes Will County’s role as one of the largest inland ports in North America, noting that over 90 million bushels of grain were shipped through local intermodal facilities last year.

Transportation remains a top priority, with the county having received $148 million in federal funds since 2001 for comprehensive projects. Recent successes include a $27 million rail grant received late last year.

Process Questions Raised

The meeting also addressed concerns about legislative communication protocols after member Kelly Hickey raised questions about letters sent to state legislators without full committee knowledge.

“I will fiercely defend anyone’s right to lobby their representation individually,” Hickey said, while expressing concern about letters that appeared to carry the weight of the full board without proper authorization.

Committee Chair Destinee Ortiz indicated the committee would continue discussions about appropriate procedures for future legislative communications.

The committee’s next meeting is scheduled for July 1, 2025.