SPRINGFIELD – A measure to require insurance companies to provide heart and lung monitors to children advanced by State Senator Rachelle Crowe was signed by Gov. Pritzker today.

This legislation expands health coverage on cardiopulmonary monitors for minors who have had complications in the past and remain at a higher risk for other problems.

“Families who cannot afford heart or lung monitors for their children deserve this relief from their insurance company,” Crowe said.

The measure was brought to Crowe by Mary Cope, a resident of Wood River who lost her infant granddaughter, Marlie, after the child was denied a heart monitor. The legislation is named Marlie’s Law in her memory.

“The heartache my family experiences every day is something I hope this legislation can prevent another family from ever knowing,” Cope said.

“This legislation ensures no child will be denied a life-saving device again,” Crowe said.

House Bill 3471 will go into effect in Illinois on Jan. 1, 2020.