SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Celina Villanueva is advancing legislation to ensure LGBTQ+ older adults and individuals living with HIV are treated with dignity and respect in long-term care settings.

“No one should have to hide who they are or fear discrimination when receiving care,” Villanueva (D-Chicago) said. “This legislation ensures LGBTQ+ individuals and people living with HIV can age with dignity, respect and equal treatment in long-term care settings.”

Senate Bill 2805 would create the Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Gender Expression in Long-Term Care Bill of Rights Act, outlining clear protections for residents receiving services in long-term care facilities or through home care providers. The measure aims to prevent discrimination based on a person’s sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, sex or HIV status.

The legislation would establish 19 rights for long-term care residents and home care clients, including the right to be addressed by their chosen name and pronouns, to receive care free from discrimination, to have visitors of their choosing, and to access services that respect their identity and personal needs.

To support these protections, Senate Bill 2805 would require employees at long-term care facilities and home service providers to complete LGBTQ and HIV cultural competency training within six months of being hired and every two years thereafter.

If any of the rights outlined in the bill are violated, residents would have the ability to pursue a civil action against the facility, provider or employee responsible.

“As Illinois continues to lead in protecting civil rights, we must ensure those protections extend to some of our most vulnerable residents,” Villanueva said. “This measure helps create safer, more inclusive care environments for everyone.”

Senate Bill 2805 passed the Senate Judiciary Committee Wednesday.