IL SB3756

Establishes the Illinois Newborn Equity Support Transfer (NEST) Program to provide direct cash assistance to individuals who give birth in Illinois while enrolled in or eligible for Medicaid through Moms and Babies, effective July 1, 2026

Participants receive a $1,500 lump sum payment during the third trimester of pregnancy and $500 monthly payments for the first 6 months following delivery (totaling $4,500)

Department of Human Services must submit biennial reports to the General Assembly on participant numbers, maternal and child health outcomes, housing stability, economic security, and recommendations for program expansion

Cash disbursements are classified as "guaranteed income" and exempt from counting toward eligibility determinations for other public aid programs under the Illinois Public Aid Code

Program implementation is subject to appropriation by the General Assembly