New board would ensure that money raised targets at-risk communities 

SPRINGFIELD – Legislation sponsored by state Rep. Karen Yarbrough (D-Maywood) to create a “Quality of Life” lottery ticket to fund HIV/AIDS prevention in Illinois passed the House Revenue Committee on Wednesday.

“HIV and AIDS are spreading rapidly in many at-risk communities, and by creating a new source to raise money, we can get the public more involved in preventing these diseases,” Yarbrough said.  “People who participate in this effort can know they are having a direct impact in helping to prevent the spread of HIV and AIDS.”

Yarbrough’s House Bill 315 creates the Quality of Life Board within the Illinois Department of Revenue.  The board will work with the department to create and market an instant scratch-off game in the state lottery that sets aside all net revenues (ticket sales after payouts) for organizations involved in HIV/AIDS prevention.  Organizations will compete for grants based on their size and the funds received may not be used for institutional, organizational, or community-based overhead costs, indirect costs, or levies.

“I’ve had the support of many community organizations in my efforts to get more funding for AIDS prevention, and their support is a big reason we have cleared this first hurdle,” Yarbrough said.  “The next step is getting both the House and Senate to pass this bill, but I am optimistic that with the help of dedicated community activists, we can make it happen.”

House Bill 315, which is co-sponsored by over 30 House members, now moves to the House floor for further consideration.  For more information, contact Yarbrough’s constituent service office at 708-615-1747.

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