PA HB1609

Amends the Administrative Code of 1929 to authorize continued funding for essential human services if the General Appropriation Act is not enacted by July 1 of any fiscal year.

Requires the Secretary of the Budget to certify prior-year funding amounts for essential services to the State Treasurer, which are then automatically appropriated from the General Fund to maintain payments to human services organizations and counties.

Defines "essential services" to include domestic violence programs, mental health services, behavioral health services, intellectual disabilities community programs, children and youth services, Human Services Development Fund, medical assistance outpatient payments, and drug and alcohol addiction treatment.

Grants the Governor authority to designate additional "other essential services" deemed necessary for public health and safety during a budget impasse.

Requires the Secretary of the Budget to submit an annual report by June 15 to the Appropriations Committees identifying services that will be deemed essential during a potential impasse; the act takes effect in 60 days.