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Abstract: 

Deep federal social-services cuts are now translating into immediate, local harm for domestic and gender-based violence (GBV) survivors—and Chicago is a stark case study. Drawing on Brandon Johnson’s proposed 2026 budget, this article tracks how the sunset of pandemic-era support—especially American Rescue Plan Act dollars—collides with shrinking city revenues to drive an estimated 43% reduction in GBV program funding. The piece explains what services are likely to be cut (prevention, rehousing, legal help) and why the timing is perilous, as domestic violence homicides rise. It also examines the political fight over replacement revenue, including a proposed corporate head tax—and what’s at stake for survivor safety if the gap isn’t filled.

Keywords: Domestic Violence Services; Federal Funding Cuts; Municipal Budgets; Gender-Based Violence Prevention; Survivor Support Programs; Chicago Policy

Affiliations:  1: Editor.