Fine works to expand health care plan transparency

SPRINGFIELD – To improve transparency, State Senator Laura Fine introduced a measure that would provide consumers with an overview of new laws impacting their insurance benefits.

“Transparent and easily accessible information about benefits is essential,” said Fine (D-Glenview). “It is important for enrollees and prospective enrollees to know their insurance benefits cover their medical needs based on current and new laws.”

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.

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Fine & LaPointe to expand health insurance reform protections for Illinois consumers

SPRINGFIELD – To enhance existing protections for Illinois residents in need of health and behavioral health care, State Senator Laura Fine and State Representative Lindsey LaPointe are sponsoring a measure to expand mental health care coverage, strengthen consumer protections and increase accountability in the health insurance industry. 

“As we work to provide Illinoisans with a health care system that makes it possible for all to access the services they need, we must address lingering barriers for both patients and physicians,” said Fine (D-Glenview). “This legislation is about putting people first and ensuring patients and physicians have the power to make their own medical decisions – not insurance companies.”

Last year, the Healthcare Protection Act was signed into law, making health care more accessible and affordable for Illinoisans. The law banned step therapy requirements, prohibited prior authorization for inpatient mental health care at hospitals, banned junk insurance plans, and ended unchecked rate increases for large group insurance companies.

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Fine appointed to Behavioral Health Administrative Burden Task Force

SPRINGFIELD – In an effort to prioritize quality mental health care, State Senator Laura Fine (D-Glenview) has been appointed to the Behavioral Health Administrative Burden Task Force. The goal of the task force is to ensure that individuals have timely access to the care they need.

“Accessible and affordable mental health care is essential healthcare for Illinoisans.  This task force serves a critical role in addressing barriers physicians face by promoting collaborative efforts between behavioral health professionals, state agencies, and patients to formulate appropriate solutions and best practices.”

 The task force is responsible for reviewing policies and regulations impacting the behavioral health industry to identify inefficiencies, duplicate or unnecessary requirements, burdensome restrictions and other barriers impeding access to services. The task force will also develop recommendations for legislative or regulatory changes to reduce administrative burdens while maintaining quality of care.

Fine highlights mental health care access, environmental safety as budget priorities

SPRINGFIELD – Following Governor JB Pritzker’s Fiscal Year 2026 budget proposal, State Senator Laura Fine (D-Glenview) issued the following statement:

“As chair of the Behavioral and Mental Health Committee and longstanding advocate for accessible and affordable mental health care services, I have spent my career working with providers and subject matter experts to deliver timely solutions to barriers impacting our communities, including insurance limitations that directly prevent patients from receiving necessary treatment. This budget takes steps to build on our existing investments in affordable mental health services, including funding for mental health services integrated with physical care as well as funding for in-state network Psychiatric Patient Treatment Facilities. The proposal continues to facilitate career pathways amidst our workforce shortages in health care fields through the Pipeline for the Advancement of the Healthcare Workforce.

“Furthermore, the integrity of our state’s environmental landscape is a priority in this proposal, with funding to revitalize state parks, historic sites, and decrease air pollution through Electric Vehicle Rebate investments.

Read more: Fine highlights mental health care access, environmental safety as budget priorities