Bill Status of HB5238

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HB5238 - 104th General Assembly

DHS-NEST PROGRAM
Last Action
3/27/2026 - House: Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
House Sponsors
Rep. Kelly M. Cassidy and Nabeela Syed
Statutes Amended In Order of Appearance
20 ILCS 1305/10-13 new
Synopsis As Introduced
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.
Actions
Date Chamber Action
2/05/2026 House Filed with the Clerk by Rep. Kelly M. Cassidy
2/10/2026 House First Reading
2/10/2026 House Referred to Rules Committee
3/18/2026 House Assigned to Appropriations-Health and Human Services Committee
3/27/2026 House Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
4/02/2026 House Added Co-Sponsor Rep. Nabeela Syed