Chicago Democrats Propose Guaranteed Income for New and Expectant Mothers on Medicaid

SPRINGFIELD – Chicago Democrats have introduced legislation that would provide guaranteed income for new and expectant mothers on Medicaid. House Bill 5238 introduced by state Rep. Kelly Cassidy, D-Chicago, and Senate Bill 3756 filed by state Sen. Graciela Guzmán, D-Chicago, would provide cash disbursements starting July 1, 2026. Program participants would receive a $1,500 lump sum payment in or around the third trimester of pregnancy plus $500 monthly cash payments for the first six months after delivery.