SPRINGFIELD – Legislation by State Senator Laura Fine to improve health insurance plan transparency for consumers passed out of the Senate today. The bill ensures consumers receive important information about changes to their insurance plans.

“Providing consumers with information about legislative changes to their health care plans can make a difference in their medical and financial planning,” said Fine (D-Glenview). “Enrollees must have access to this essential information to ensure their medical needs are covered.”

Currently, health insurance providers are required to provide enrollees with a list of in-network providers and a description of their coverage annually upon request. Senate Bill 1346 would expand the list of required information to include any newly enacted state coverage mandates. The Illinois Department of Insurance would be required to post an annual report on its website with this information.

Additionally, insurers would be required to issue a benefit information card noting if the plan is self-insured or fully funded and if the plan is subject to regulation by the Department of Insurance.

“This measure will alleviate confusion between consumers and policy providers, ensuring consumers don’t face surprise coverage denials,” said Fine. “I look forward to working with advocates and colleagues to see this measure become law.”

Senate Bill 1346 passed the Senate on Thursday.