SPRINGFIELD – Senate Majority Leader Kimberly A. Lightford is taking on women's health care gaps — having led newly signed legislation to expand menopause treatment access and crack down on workplace discrimination against those dealing with related conditions.
“Illinois should be a leader in caring for women going through perimenopause and menopause — and that means removing the obstacles that have held too many back from getting help,” said Lightford (D-Maywood). “Requiring private insurance to cover these evaluations and treatments will make care more affordable and help prevent serious long-term health issues.”
Under previous law, Illinois required insurance coverage for FDA-approved menopause treatment to ensure a person’s income does not obstruct them from receiving sufficient care. Lightford’s new law will broaden coverage requirements, mandating private health plans in the state cover the medically necessary evaluation and treatment of menopause and perimenopause conditions, including hormone conditions and medications.
Additionally, the law aims to safeguard workplace protections by prohibiting employers from discriminating against an employee experiencing menopause-related conditions, such as hot flashes, metabolic changes or forgetfulness – a common symptom of menopause often referred to as “brain fog.” To ensure employees who experience conditions have equitable civil rights in their work environment, reasonable accommodations, including flexible scheduling, temperature control workspaces and remote work options, will be required.
In 2023, the Mayo Clinic published a study revealing menopause-related symptoms do not only adversely affect the quality of life women have at home, but they also cost women an estimated $1.8 billion in lost work time per year – $26.6 billion annually with medical expenses factored in. Lightford’s law will ensure workplaces adopt supportive policies that promote both employee safety and retention with the goal of curbing discrimination and enhancing productivity.
“Perimenopause and menopause often hit women right in the middle of their careers,” Lightford said. “Without flexible working conditions, that can hurt productivity and cause companies to lose talented employees they didn't have to lose. This bill is about taking real action to support some of the most important people in our workforce and our communities.”
House Bill 5284 was signed into law Friday.
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