Welcome to the Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus

Preston measure to give children a voice

SPRINGFIELD — A new law championed by State Senator Willie Preston will expand insurance and Medicaid coverage for rehabilitative speech therapy for stuttering, helping more Illinois children and young adults access critical treatment and support services.

“Too many young people who stutter face barriers to getting the care they need,” said Preston (D-Chicago). “This law helps remove those barriers and ensures more families can access critical treatment and support services.”

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Aquino leads measure to increase accessibility for hospital financial assistance

SPRINGFIELD – To address the pervasive issue of medical debt and support underinsured and uninsured patients, a new law led by State Senator Omar Aquino will streamline the application process for hospital financial assistance.

“While families navigate health issues, they should not have to endure the added stress of undergoing a confusing financial assistance application process,” said Aquino (D-Chicago). “With federal cuts to Medicaid threatening the health care of millions, financial concerns will only worsen, forcing more people to forgo care and leading to more expensive medical costs down the road.”

House Bill 5390 tasks the Attorney General with creating a standard form for hospitals to include in applications for financial assistance. The law also establishes a one-year approval period to address current administrative burdens.

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Guzmán bill protecting Illinoisans from losing their homes over medical debt becomes law

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Graciela Guzmán’s bill to protect those burdened by health care debt from having a lien placed on their home during a health care debt collection has been signed into law.

“No one should have to fear losing their home because they got sick,” said Guzmán. “For too long, hospitals have been allowed to use medical debt to threaten the stability of working families. Illinois should never allow that debt to become a tool for taking away someone’s home. Today we put an end to one of the most harmful debt collection practices in our state.”

Read more: Guzmán bill protecting Illinoisans from losing their homes over medical debt becomes law

Ellman law to ensure fair access to digital discounts

SPRINGFIELD – Digital coupons have become more common; however, not all consumers can easily access them. State Senator Laura Ellman is combatting this with a new law that will ensure eligible consumers receive the benefits of digital promotions when they meet the stated terms.

“People shouldn’t miss out on savings because a promotion isn’t accessible,” said Ellman (D-Naperville). “If it’s offered, it should be usable to all, especially when a digital coupon can make a difference when buying in bulk with increasing grocery prices.”

According to the Pew Research Center, nearly one in four adults over 65 say they need help using digital technology, highlighting ongoing barriers to app-based only promotions. As retail continues to evolve, Ellman’s law will make everyday transactions more accessible.

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