SPRINGFIELD – To facilitate access to affordable health care services, State Senator Laura Fine advanced a measure that will assist in the transition to a state-based health insurance marketplace.

“It has always been my aim to have our insurance marketplace reflect the needs of Illinoisans by providing accessible and affordable health care for all,” said Fine (D-Glenview). “Establishing a state-based marketplace prioritizes the needs of our residents.”

Legislation passed last year established a state-based health insurance marketplace, allowing Illinois to offer affordable insurance coverage options. Illinois will complete the transition to the state-based health insurance marketplace by 2026.

Senate Bill 3130 assists the transition to the state-based marketplace by making essential changes to current provisions, including adding pregnancy as a qualifying life event, aligning flat-dollar copay requirements and stand-alone dental plans with federal regulations, and requiring insurers who exit the market and discontinue coverage to provide 45 days’ notice to the Illinois Department of Insurance.

“We are taking a significant step forward to effectively manage this change and reduce barriers to healthcare access,” said Fine. “These necessary changes will improve access to quality, affordable healthcare across Illinois.”

Senate Bill 3130 passed the Senate on Wednesday and heads to the House for further consideration.