IL SB0815

Changes Section 11-5.2 to require (rather than permit) the Department of Healthcare and Family Services to contract with a vendor for electronic data matching until an integrated eligibility system becomes operational.

Extends the procurement deadline from 60 days to 70 days after the effective date for the Chief Procurement Officer to conduct and complete procurement of a vendor to verify eligibility for assistance under Article V of the Illinois Public Aid Code.

Establishes data matching procedures using applicant name, date of birth, address, and Social Security Number against multiple databases including income tax records, Social Security Administration data, employment records, immigration status, and veterans' benefits information.

Requires the Department to provide written notice and allow applicants 10 business days to respond when discrepancies are discovered between provided information and database records before denying assistance.

Makes procurement contracts exempt from the Illinois Procurement Code except for specific disclosure and compliance sections, and requires quarterly reporting to state legislative and executive leadership on contractor recommendations and Department actions.