SPRINGFIELD – To ensure costs are not the deciding factor for residents considering getting a vaccination, State Senator Laura Fine advanced a measure to require insurance to cover certain vaccines without out-of-pocket expenses.

“Vaccinations, whether it is for COVID or the flu, may mean the difference between life and death for some individuals,” said Fine (D-Glenview). “The cost of a vaccine should not be an unnecessary barrier to protecting your health.”

Under the measure, all group and individual insurance policies and managed care plans would be required to cover the fees associated with COVID-19 vaccines, flu vaccines and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccines, including administration of the vaccination. Currently, individuals with certain insurance plans may have to pay administration fees.

SPRINGFIELD – To increase awareness, sensitivity and compassion for those affected by tardive dyskinesia, State Senator Laura Fine led a resolution to designate May 5-11, 2024 as Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week in Illinois.

“People seeking treatment for a mental health condition are already experiencing personal hardships and may not realize their potential for developing tardive dyskinesia, which could further impact their emotional well-being,” said Fine (D-Glenview). “It is critical we understand what this condition means for an individual in order to best help them live with dignity and to give them necessary resources.”

Tardive dyskinesia is a condition characterized by uncontrollable movements affecting the face, torso and other body parts. This condition may develop after several months of taking certain medications to treat mental health conditions such as bipolar disorder, depression and schizophrenia. Approximately 600,000 people in the U.S. experience symptoms of tardive dyskinesia.

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.

SPRINGFIELD – To give families and caregivers timely notice of their loved one’s passing, State Senator Laura Fine is leading a measure that would require substance abuse programs and mental health facilities to provide transparent communication regarding a patient’s death.

“Families and caregivers should have complete assurance in the programs and facilities they are placing their loved ones in for treatment,” said Fine (D-Glenview). “It is both tragic and unacceptable that a family would have to wait several days before being notified of their loved one’s passing.”

Under current law, a facility must provide verbal notice regarding a significant incident to the Illinois Department of Human Services within 24 hours. However, there is no mandate that requires a family member to be notified of a patient’s death within a specific timeframe.