The Illinois Senate has approved a plan to direct almost $5 billion in federal funds to social service agencies during the state's budget stalemate.
Lawmakers unanimously supported the legislation Tuesday, sending the measure to the House. A spokesman for Gov. Bruce Rauner said he supports the plan.
The $4.8 billion would be used to fund programs that provide nutrition to women and children, help low-income residents pay their utility bills and offer cancer screenings to people who cannot afford them, among others.
The federal dollars have been caught up in the budget impasse between Rauner and Democrats who run the Legislature.
Social service agencies that rely on the money have had to cut services or tap cash reserves. Some have closed their doors.
