AARP Illinois Statement on Illinois FY 26 Proposed Budget

The following statement was issued by AARP Illinois State Director Philippe Largent following the introduction of the FY25 Budget:

On behalf of our 1.7 million members, AARP Illinois appreciates Governor JB Pritzker’s proposed balanced 2026 state budget that emphasizes fiscal responsibility and the importance of supporting older adults.

AARP Illinois supports the Governor’s directive to lower the cost of prescription drugs for all Illinoisans. Lowering prescription drug costs is a top priority for AARP Illinois to ensure seniors can afford the medications they need. We believe two key solutions to ensuring prescription drug affordability this legislative session will be the Prescription Drug Affordability Board and Wholesale Prescription Drug Importation Act. Both policies offer real, sustainable relief for seniors struggling with rising prescription costs.

AARP Illinois is pleased to see continued growth in the funding of the state’s Community Care Program, Home Delivered Meals and Adult Day Services, ensuring more seniors receive the care and nutrition they need to age at home.

We commend Governor Pritzker for his decisive actions against criminals who commit fraud and scams targeting older adults and all Illinoisans, particularly in the realm of digital assets and cryptocurrencies. His pledge for stronger consumer protections is a significant step towards a safer and more secure environment for everyone.

By allowing the Low-Income Home Energy assistance program additional funding, residents who struggle to afford their energy bills will get much-needed support.

AARP Illinois will continue to work with the Governor and the Illinois General Assembly to find adequate funding for the Illinois Caregiver Portal, a critical resource for the 1.3 million family caregivers who provide $21 billion in unpaid care to their loved ones each year.

Illinois has made great strides in achieving national recognition for the Caregiver Portal as a vital tool to support caregivers, offering resources and guidance. Failing to fund it now is a major setback, leaving caregivers without the help they need and deserve.

AARP Illinois looks forward to continued conversations with the Governor’s office and the General Assembly on funding the Caregiving Portal and ensuring that the needs of older adults and all Illinois residents 50+ are met during these trying fiscal times.