With no Illinois state budget set for next year, one agency in Sterling was forced to lay off workers and close its door temporarily.
Northwestern Illinois Center for Independent Living or NICIL has had to make tough decisions over the years, but their decision on Thursday, the toughest.
"We have to tell people I can`t serve them," said Michele Miller, executive director for NICIL.
NICIL has been around for 30 years helping people with disabilities live on their own through programs they offer. They serve 300 people in five Illinois counties. Their contract with the state ended June 30th and with no budget set for next year, a new contract can't start, forcing NICIL to close its doors and lay off eight employees.
"We can`t send in any of the expenses. We can`t incur any expenses, as soon as the budget starts again we can get back to work and we can continue on our way," said Miller.
NICIL has very little in reserves. If the budget isn't passed by mid-September it will reopen until their reserves are gone, so they can save money now and use it later when there is a greater need for service in the fall.
"Every day for a person with disabilities can be difficult without support, so there's no good day to cut off services," said Miller.
Lawmakers are expected to return to the capital Tuesday, July 7th, to discuss the budget.