As the federal government takes steps to dismantle agencies and lay off qualified public servants who administer key programs serving millions of Americans, State Senator Cristina Castro is moving forward with a plan to protect state-administered federal programs from future interference.

“Here in Illinois, we aren’t going to sit by while the health care and food assistance programs our neighbors rely on are hollowed out and job opportunities are eroded,” said Castro (D-Elgin). “This legislation is key to making sure dedicated public servants — who serve vulnerable residents in need — aren’t left on the chopping block.”

Federal merit systems — standards that states must adhere to for employees who administer specific grant programs — have been in place since the passage of the Civil Service Act in 1883. These standards are meant to ensure the individuals responsible for federal dollars are highly qualified, treated fairly, safeguarded from discrimination, compensated adequately and protected from partisan coercion. Programs currently covered by federal merit requirements include Medicaid, aging programs, unemployment insurance, SNAP, foster care and adoption assistance, and several grant programs serving people with disabilities and families with dependent children.

Under Castro’s measure, the current personnel merit requirements would be codified in state law, ensuring that if the federal government weakens or eliminates its requirements, key programs like unemployment insurance, SNAP and Medicaid will continue to be administered in Illinois by qualified, capable state employees.

“We have taken steps to foster a more representative, diverse state workforce, and we intend to keep this momentum moving forward — not backward,” Castro said. “The dedicated civil employees who administer these programs not only benefit the people they serve, but they help create a stronger, healthier Illinois.”

House Bill 1586 passed the Senate Labor Committee Tuesday.