SPRINGFIELD – A new law led by State Senator Omar Aquino aims to strengthen Illinois’ health care system by increasing government efficiency and transparency while maximizing state dollars to fund essential services vulnerable communities depend on.
“Impending federal cuts to Medicaid are a threat to the stability of our health care system, risking access to care for thousands of Illinoisans,” said Aquino (D-Chicago). “Safeguarding local hospitals and community-based services is needed to ensure our most vulnerable communities are not left behind.”
Senate Bill 3365 creates the Distressed Hospital Loan Program, which will provide interest-free cash flow loans to public and nonprofit hospitals in financial distress. The goal is to prevent hospital closures and maintain services while also instituting guardrails that will make sure distressed and safety net hospitals are on a path to financial sustainability.
The law also supports maternal health by codifying health care coverage for tests detecting and managing preeclampsia and spontaneous preterm birth. Further, it aims to support older adults by providing additional senior living options with oversight for cottage-style nursing homes and expanding eligibility for Supportive Living Facility dementia units.
The law recognizes the health care challenges created by the federal administration’s budget – H.R. 1 – and takes steps to build up the state’s social services safety net to protect hospitals, health systems, nursing home care, vulnerable populations and taxpayer dollars.
“Access to health care should not depend on how much you make or where you live,” said Aquino. “This law upholds the core principle that health care is a right in Illinois.”
Senate Bill 3365 was signed into law Tuesday and is effective immediately.
