WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 3047

PUB AID-VA BENEFITS EXEMPTION

104th Regular Session Introduced by Neil Anderson and 1 co-sponsor

Illinois bill exempts Veterans Administration benefits from public assistance income calculations, allowing veterans to receive full state aid without benefit reduction.

Rule 2-10 Committee/3rd Reading Deadline Established As May 22, 2026
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 3047

Legislative bill overview

SB 3047 would create or expand an exemption for Veterans Administration benefits from being counted as income or resources when determining eligibility for Illinois public assistance programs. This means VA benefits would not reduce the amount of aid recipients can receive from state welfare programs.

Why is this important

Veterans receiving VA disability or survivor benefits could simultaneously receive full public assistance without their VA income reducing their benefits. This could significantly increase total support for veteran households while also increasing state program costs. The exemption recognizes that VA benefits may not fully cover living expenses, particularly for severely disabled veterans or surviving families.

Potential points of contention

  • Budget impact: Exempting VA benefits expands who qualifies for full public assistance, increasing state expenditures without offsetting revenue sources
  • Program fairness: Non-veteran recipients would still have their income counted, potentially creating disparate treatment between similarly situated low-income Illinoisans
  • Intent of federal benefits: Debate over whether VA benefits are supplemental support (supporting exemption) or primary income (opposing exemption) for basic living needs

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.