The Majority Report 08/12/24 - Protecting reproductive care

Details: Category: Majority Report; Monday, August 12, 2024 08:45 AM

Insurance coverage for IVF expanded under new Castro law

SPRINGFIELD — Standing strong on the issue of safeguarding women’s health, State Senator Cristina Castro championed the effort to expand access to fertility treatments like in vitro fertilization through a measure signed into law.

“Infertility affects millions of Americans, leaving thousands of hopeful parents in Illinois and across the United States unable to have a child on their own,” said Castro (D-Elgin). “The possibility of starting a family through advanced treatments like IVF represents hope for so many of these individuals – and this law takes steps to protect and expand access for the thousands who rely on it.”

Senate Democrats join governor in signing of historic birth equity legislation

CHICAGO — Members of the Senate Democratic Caucus joined Governor JB Pritzker to sign the Birth Equity Initiative into law. The new law will assist mothers and soon-to-be-mothers with receiving community-based health care options and resources.

“As a Black woman with three boys, this legislation is personal to me. The increasing rates of infant and maternal mortality, particularly among Black women, demand urgent action,” said State Senator Lakesia Collins (D-Chicago). “This law is not just about health care — it's about justice, equality and the right of every mother and child to have access to the safest and most effective care, ultimately reducing mortality rates and ensuring healthier futures for Illinois families.”

Cunningham’s measure to rein in rogue towing companies signed into law

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Bill Cunningham’s measure to protect vehicle owners by updating towing regulations often abused by rogue towing companies was signed into law.

“We have residents getting a surprise $1,500 bill when all they’re trying to do is pick up a vehicle that was stolen from outside their residence,” said Cunningham, a Democrat who represents portions of Chicago and the Southwest Suburbs. “This measure will stop towing companies from charging any storage fees on stolen vehicles and makes sure that a proper notification process is set up.”

Glowiak Hilton law prohibits pharmacies from refusing paper prescriptions

SPRINGFIELD — In order to make medication more accessible to Illinoisans, State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton’s new law prohibits pharmacists from refusing to fill a written prescription.

“Pharmacies must accept doctors’ prescriptions for approved medication regardless of how the prescription is sent to them,” said Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs). “Every Illinoisan deserves the right to their medication when they need it.”

members in the news