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WNIJ's summary of news items around our state.

Illinois Lawmaker Remains Hopeful For Child Care Program Expansion After Recent Veto

"Swings" By Flickr User halfrain / (CC X 2.0)

The sponsor of legislation to expand Illinois' child care program says she's hopeful it will happen -- despite Governor Bruce Rauner's recent veto.

Democratic Senator Kim Lightford of Maywood says she'll try to override the veto after November's election.

Lightford wants to increase the amount of money a parent can make to receive a state subsidy for child care.

Her measure would raise the limit to 200 percent of the federal poverty level or less than $24,000 a year for a single parent with one child. It would rise in later years.

"When the goal is to help people who are vulnerable, need help, trying to do better for themselves and we tell them: If you earn a higher, if you work the job, we'll help ensure your child's safety during that time period,” Lightford said.

That change would put an estimated more than 50 thousand more kids into the program.

In his veto message, Rauner says it would cost Illinois an extra 200 million dollars next year. 

He says that expense, on top of Illinois' weak budget, threatens the entire Child Care Assistance Program.

Any vote attempting to override his veto will be close.

Amanda Vinicky moved to Chicago Tonight on WTTW-TV PBS in 2017.
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