Avelar Passes State Budget Prioritizing Affordability for Illinois Communities

SPRINGFIELD, Ill.- State Rep. Dagmara “Dee” Avelar, D-Bolingbrook, supported a balanced budget that imposes no new taxes on working people and delivers needed relief to Illinois communities. 

“Our main goal in Illinois is to pass a balanced budget that avoids increasing debt and helps working families make ends meet,” said Avelar. “At a time when federal cuts are threatening essential services like healthcare, education and SNAP benefits while driving up everyday costs, Illinois is focused on making these necessities more affordable and accessible.”

This session, Avelar sponsored legislation that will make everyday necessities affordable for all Illinoisans, including: 

• House Bill 45 will make groceries more affordable by making digital coupons accessible to all and ensuring that the advertised price is the price a customer pays; 
• House Bill 4456 is making utilities affordable by helping more families qualify for home energy assistance to ensure they have electricity and gas; 
• House Bill 642 is expanding property tax relief for seniors by expanding the fixed-income eligibility requirements to ensure that more seniors are eligible for relief and save money; and
• Senate Bill 3910 to impose a state gas tax freeze and holiday sales tax freeze during back-to-school season for school supplies, hygiene products and clothes. 

Additionally, Avelar championed the FRESH Act — included in this year’s state budget – which provides a one-time food assistance relief payment to qualifying families whose SNAP benefits were reduced or eliminated due to the federal government’s new SNAP cuts. 

Avelar also passed Bill 5390 to streamline the financial assistance process and make it easier for patients to apply for hospital discounts and aid regardless of citizenship status or assets. Additionally, House Bill 4698 requires healthcare providers disclose fees upfront, helping protect patients from unexpected medical bills.

“This session, I worked to strengthen our schools, expand access to affordable healthcare, create more job opportunities and protect families from harmful federal actions,” said Avelar. “We will always stand up to Washington when its policies threaten our communities. I will always do my part to ensure Illinois families have the support they need.”