Quinn's budget includes a $17 million funding reduction for the Illinois Department of Public Health ( IDPH ) , which supports critical HIV/AIDS and public health services. No HIV programs were specifically listed for funding reductions.

In May, a state advisory panel recommended that Illinois institute a waiting list for ADAP because program costs are far outstripping available revenue. A waiting list would create unacceptable health risks for low-income people with HIV, including unnecessary hospitalizations, sickness, disability, and even early death.

Quinn stated publicly in both May and June that funding for ADAP is a top priority for his Administration, and ADAP was listed as the top item in the Governor's public health department budget. The administration's budget did not specify funding amounts for any programs within public health, saying details would be released by the end of July.

"We thank Governor Quinn for underscoring the importance of sustaining access to lifesaving HIV medications," said Mark Ishaug, President/CEO of the AIDS Foundation of Chicago ( AFC ) . "We eagerly await detailed budget information for all HIV programs and services and hope the Administration adequately funds a full spectrum of activities from prevention to housing and ADAP."

The Illinois General Assembly has to deal with an estimated $11 billion budget deficit. In addition, the state faces nearly $6 billion in unpaid bills, including payments to HIV service providers, and has no revenue source for the state's $3.5 million pension payment.