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The Illinois Department of Human Services is holding the second of two public hearings Wednesday over the Rauner administration’s proposals to toughen the appeals process for key benefits programs.
The Rauner administration’s proposed rule changes would impact Medicaid, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), according to disability advocacy group Access Living.
The group says the Rauner administration is seeking to make the appeals process harder for people who are denied benefits or terminated from those programs.
The Rauner administration’s proposed rules “do not provide customers with due process, are unnecessarily complicated and confusing, and in some cases are in conflict with the federal statutes and regulations protecting the rights of those eligible for the various benefits programs,” Access Living’s advocacy director said in a posting on the group’s website.
SEIU Healthcare Illinois is also speaking out against the proposed changes.
“The Rauner administration is adding a blizzard of new barriers to access services as well as denying due process to the very poor in ways that conflict with existing statutes, regulations and court cases–not to mention Rauner’s own public statements that he is committed to preserving benefits for the vulnerable,” the union said in a media release. “Among the changes, the state would alter the entire premise for Illinois social services and place the burden of proof for aid on those who need help the most — a drastic departure from current conditions — and would move hearings when benefits are denied far away from access points for the poor.”
The proposed rule changes are here. Some criticisms are here.
* From today’s hearing…
Top elder law attorney @AnthonyBFerraro testifies at DHS hearing that Rauner's new rules violate federal laws on Medicaid appeals. #twill
— SEIU HCIIMK (@SEIUhciimk) August 26, 2015
Eldercare attorney: proposed DHS rule moving appeal deadline from 60 to 10 days a nightmare for families w loved one in nursing home #twill
— Voices4ILChildren (@Voices4ILKids) August 26, 2015
New Dept. Of Human Services rules remove requirement that appeal hearing officers be impartial. #twill
— Graham Bowman (@CCHealthLaw) August 26, 2015
Testimony highlights absurdity of DHS requiring individuals w disabilities to travel over 200 miles to appeal denial of benefits #twill
— Voices4ILChildren (@Voices4ILKids) August 26, 2015
Why would IL remove requirement that hearing officer be "impartial" under new DHS proposed rules? Why even have an appeals hearing? #twill
— ILCollabOnYouth (@ILCollabOnYouth) August 26, 2015
Many people testifying against Rauner's new rules note that they *literally* strike the words "fair" & "impartial" multiple times. #twill
— SEIU HCIIMK (@SEIUhciimk) August 26, 2015
New Dept. Of Human Services rules remove requirement that appeal hearing officers be impartial. #twill
— Graham Bowman (@CCHealthLaw) August 26, 2015
Unanimity at public hearing: proposed DHS rules on appeals designed to make lives of low-income families more difficult #twill
— Voices4ILChildren (@Voices4ILKids) August 26, 2015
Law prof & elder law expert Amy Delaney calls Rauner's new rules an "abomination" & declares flatly, "These rules are illegal." #twill
— SEIU HCIIMK (@SEIUhciimk) August 26, 2015
Sheesh.
posted by Rich Miller
Wednesday, Aug 26, 15 @ 2:24 pm
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Who would go out of their way to remove the words “fair and impartial” multiple times from the rules around review processes? Are they that crazy, or is there a method to their madness?
Comment by walker Wednesday, Aug 26, 15 @ 2:30 pm
The Grinch and Scrooge agree, Rauner takes the cake.
Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, Aug 26, 15 @ 2:34 pm
Ahhh, the latest of Ruaner’s campaign deceptions coming to light.
Comment by LIberty Wednesday, Aug 26, 15 @ 2:34 pm
Is this the “compassionate” part?
How do you give $100 million in no-strings attached taxpayer money to profitable corporations like EBay and Capitol One (a gouging credit card company) and get tough with the poor, sick and disabled?
How’s that America capitalism and democracy?
Where did you guys go to school? Where did you got to Sunday school?
Comment by Wordslinger Wednesday, Aug 26, 15 @ 2:34 pm
== horribly biased against the poor ==
To the GOP, that’s no problem.
Comment by nona Wednesday, Aug 26, 15 @ 2:41 pm
This is how Rauner is keeping his promise to make the Land of Lincoln “the most compassionate state in the Union.” If this is the most compassionate policy, then what would the least compassionate look like?
Comment by nona Wednesday, Aug 26, 15 @ 2:45 pm
In a word these rules changes are cruel. This is a lawsuit waiting to be filed.
Comment by Huh? Wednesday, Aug 26, 15 @ 2:47 pm
“Are they that crazy, or is there a method to their madness?”
Perhaps they just thought it was redundant. In these rules as they are currently written the hearing officer is officially referred to by the title “Impartial Hearing Officer”. Other agencies simply call their hearing officers “Hearing Officers” without adding the term “impartial” — does that mean they are not impartial? Or does it mean that being impartial is assumed to be part of their job?
Comment by Secret Square Wednesday, Aug 26, 15 @ 2:49 pm
It’s neither competitive nor compassionate to kick the chair out from under the poorest people in the state just to save a couple bucks.
Comment by Tournaround Agenda Wednesday, Aug 26, 15 @ 2:50 pm
Since EBay and Capital One are recipients of Wealthy Welfare than all employees must undergo mandatory drug testing.
Bruce….you said you were “shaking up Springfield”…..
Comment by Jack Stephens Wednesday, Aug 26, 15 @ 2:52 pm
“Fair and impartial” must also have a Madigan bias.
Comment by Juice Wednesday, Aug 26, 15 @ 2:57 pm
Okay here’s the plan, Illinois can’t afford to pay for the services since they are so busy paying the attorney time to support bad policy when it gets taken to court. My question is who really is in the pocket of the trial lawyers? This looks like a great plan to keep attorney’s busy.
Comment by illinifan Wednesday, Aug 26, 15 @ 3:02 pm
Riffing off Jack Stephens and Word, above, on the topic of what we might call “WealthFare” for corporations and better-to-do Illinoisans:
Can the Administration ID any budget cuts or cost-saving measures they’re taking, that have NOT targeted sick, old, disabled or otherwise vulnerable folks? More specifically, any measures that deal more exclusively with wealthier individuals/corporations?
I cannot do so, myself, and I pay attention to this stuff.
Serious question.
Comment by Linus Wednesday, Aug 26, 15 @ 3:04 pm
Three word explanation: Superstar Donna Arduin.
Comment by EconLady Wednesday, Aug 26, 15 @ 3:05 pm
Rauner now starring in a remake of “It’s A Wonderful Life.” I needn’t mention his role, need I?
Comment by Scholar athlete Wednesday, Aug 26, 15 @ 3:08 pm
Let me guess: the number of times “fair” and impartial” are deleted is equal to the number of times Rauner declared that he wants Illinois to be a “compassionate” state. Maybe he doesn’t know the meaning of the word.
Comment by 4th Street Wednesday, Aug 26, 15 @ 3:15 pm
Also added was this: “Section 14.25 Burden of Proof: The appellant shall have the responsibility to prove, by the preponderance of the evidence, that the action by the Department was not in accordance with federal or State laws or regulations or DHS policy.”
It’s a nice touch.
Comment by Pot calling kettle Wednesday, Aug 26, 15 @ 3:20 pm
Where is @StateHouseChick when you need her, Oswego Willy?
Comment by Juvenal Wednesday, Aug 26, 15 @ 3:22 pm
A measure of any society is how it takes care of or addresses the needs of those who are the most vulnerable and least able to take care of themselves. The proposed changes are shameful and breathtakingly unconscionable. The Rauner Administration’s proposed changes represent mean spirited attacks against the poor, disabled and elderly. The intent of the changes is probably to reduce caseload numbers and ultimately administrative costs. The proposed changes attack the most fundamental tenants of fairness and due process.
Comment by kitty Wednesday, Aug 26, 15 @ 3:30 pm
How many people use the appeal process? How many reversals happen?
Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, Aug 26, 15 @ 3:31 pm
In Illinois, praying for a real Ebenezer Scrooge.
Comment by Tournaround Agenda Wednesday, Aug 26, 15 @ 3:31 pm
Rauner cuts of support services for the poor are starting to rival his would be cuts to union supported workers’ wages and benefits.
Horrible!
Comment by Wensicia Wednesday, Aug 26, 15 @ 3:34 pm
and to think some people thought the attacks against rauners nursing home business practices were unfair or not relevant to how he would govern.
wheres your husband’s ounce of compassion, diana?
Comment by hisgirlfriday Wednesday, Aug 26, 15 @ 3:36 pm
Wordslinger, unfortunately the Rauner Administration’s blatant disregard for the poor and disadvantaged brings home the Libertarian wing of the Republican Party’s (sponsored by Koch Bros) policy agenda of economic social Darwinism and lasses-fairer capitalism. They believe society advances where it’s fittest members are allowed to assert themselves without any regulations or hindrance. The also argue that those they consider unfit should not be prevented from dying out. It’s a cold sick view as far as I’m concerned.
Comment by Triple fat Wednesday, Aug 26, 15 @ 3:41 pm
He’s going to keep pushing until someone beats him. This election cycle will really be the tipping point. Can he really buy Illinois or have people figured out that cuts have consequences?
Comment by DuPage Bard Wednesday, Aug 26, 15 @ 3:50 pm
==- walker - Wednesday, Aug 26, 15 @ 2:30 pm:==
The goal is to inflict harm on the poor. It’s Plutocrat Playbook 101.
Comment by Precinct Captain Wednesday, Aug 26, 15 @ 3:53 pm
Another glaring example of Rauner’s compassionate Illinois, this, child care cuts and attacks on union rights. Dumping on the poor while the wealthiest, like Rauner and those who are richer than him, are having some of the best of economic times.
Appeals have helped a great many people in dire need of help. How is it that many of us are harmed by a modest state income tax increase, and the wealthy are harmed by a progressive state income tax, compared with this type of damage?
Comment by Grandson of Man Wednesday, Aug 26, 15 @ 4:03 pm
Wordslinger, you really think these people went to Sunday school? I suspect their parents allowed them to sleep in on weekends. They seem very fuzzy on the whole “compassion” thing.
Comment by Crispy Wednesday, Aug 26, 15 @ 4:04 pm
Is anyone surprised by this?
Rauner is a Republican who cited Scott Walker, Sam Brownback and Mike Pence as role models.
What did people think was going to happen once he was elected?
Comment by Northsider Wednesday, Aug 26, 15 @ 4:08 pm
Governor Rauner and his administration are out of control. I was in his corner during the campaign but in light of his conduct since being elected I am no longer with him or the henchmen/women he brought to Springfield with him. Talk about someone with “a chip on his shoulder.” He does not realize nor cares to recognized his limitations.
Comment by Out of Control Wednesday, Aug 26, 15 @ 4:18 pm
DHS has taken as long as 363 calendar days to hold a Medicaid hearing due in 90 days under Federal law. Can’t wait to see how long they’d take under “improved” rules which violate the Social Security Act. Lawsuits in 3…2…1
Comment by CrookCounty60827 Wednesday, Aug 26, 15 @ 4:52 pm
I can’t wait for the Governor’s policy statement declaring, “Liquidate labor, liquidate stocks, liquidate the farmer, liquidate real estate. It will purge the rottenness out of the system. People will work harder, lead a more moral life.” Just kidding - Herbert Hoover’s Treasury Secretary, Andrew Melton said that in response to the crash of 1929. I especially like the part about the farmers. I’m sure the Governor would like to show his appreciation to them by at least throwing them under the bus somewhere down the road.
Comment by Triple fat Wednesday, Aug 26, 15 @ 4:56 pm
Good Afternoon Rich,
Governor Rauner never loses. He felt that in order to maintain his record, it was simply far easier to remove any impartial judges from the system. That way, it’s far easier to continue to win against the dirty poor.
Best,
ck!
Comment by How Ironic Wednesday, Aug 26, 15 @ 5:03 pm
In Rauner’s world, if you’re not with him, he’s against you.
Comment by Anon Wednesday, Aug 26, 15 @ 5:05 pm
Northsider- Agree. The folks who voted for Rauner and are now surprised by his actions didn’t do their homework. He was great at sound bites and refusing to give specifics about his policy plans- and people bought it. Wow. And, his other favorite role model is Ditch Mitch Daniels. As a former hoosier, Mitch is one of my all time favs
Comment by Former Hoosier Wednesday, Aug 26, 15 @ 5:07 pm
They need these changed to have money for the “most vulnerable” in our society, b/c Michael Madigan and the legislators he controls….When will people see what is happening here?
To everyone that voted for the guy who said he would tell them his plan after he was elected: How’s that working out for you?
Comment by burbanite Wednesday, Aug 26, 15 @ 6:10 pm
Corporate governance at its finest.
Comment by Jorge Wednesday, Aug 26, 15 @ 6:46 pm
I agree with EconLady, Arduin’s MO is becoming apparent!
Comment by XDNR Wednesday, Aug 26, 15 @ 7:47 pm
Can we rename DHS to the Department of Human Suffering to more closely resemble its new mission under Rauner?
Comment by PublicServant Wednesday, Aug 26, 15 @ 8:19 pm
Perhaps he is auditioning for the job of Trump’s running mate.
Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, Aug 26, 15 @ 8:52 pm
I told everyone I could in my community that if Rauner would get elected he would be dangerous. Never dreamed how right I would be.
Comment by sparky791 Wednesday, Aug 26, 15 @ 9:13 pm
If only poor people were highly-profitable corporations, Ivy League schools that Bruce Rauner attended or carpetbagging conservative superstars… They could get all the state contracts, six-figure salaries and grants they want.
I guess it doesn’t pay to be poor.
Comment by A. Nonymous Wednesday, Aug 26, 15 @ 9:39 pm
Being poor is a crime in Illinois?
Our Governor sounds like a fan of Ayn Rand?
I think they would have hit it off…viciously?
What do we call people who victimize the poor…after having accumulated more “wealth” (obscenely gluttonous portions of the single pie)…than the Pharaoh’s of Egypt?
Do we call them Governors?
Comment by Anonymous Redux Thursday, Aug 27, 15 @ 9:21 am
++- Triple fat - Wednesday, Aug 26, 15 @ 3:41 pm: ++
TF - you hit the nail on the head! They don’t care about anyone or anything with the exception of their pocketbooks bigger.
Comment by Mama Thursday, Aug 27, 15 @ 9:21 am