IL HB4885

Courts must issue a temporary certificate of economic hardship to petitioners whenever a domestic violence order of protection or civil no contact order is issued.

The certificate serves as proof of income eligibility for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Women Infants and Children (WIC) program, legal aid, and other state or local assistance programs.

The certificate validity period is set by the court and may be extended upon petition if circumstances warrant.

State agencies and local governmental entities administering federally-funded public benefit programs must apply for all necessary federal waivers or approvals to accept the certificates as proof of income eligibility.

Implementation of the bill is contingent on receipt of all required federal waivers or approvals.