Springfield, IL - Today a measure that promotes health insurance fairness sponsored by State Senator Heather Steans (D-7th Chicago) and Representative Greg Harris (D-13th Chicago) moves to the governor's desk to be signed into law.
The Individual Health Insurance Fairness Act (House Bill 3923), establishes an independent review process for carriers who have denied claims and makes it easier for small businesses to apply for health insurance by creating a standard application for all insurance companies. In addition, this measure requires insurance companies to place more information online so consumers can see how their premium dollars are spent.
“This new legislation provides far better protection for people who have private health insurance and also improves the access and quality of health care in Illinois,” Steans said. “It also ensures that Illinoisans are better protected from unfair and inconsistent health insurance industry practices.”
According to a report by AARP, which is also a strong proponent of this legislation, in the private market, an average annual premium for a family of four has risen to nearly $5,500, while an individual premium costs $2,500 in Illinois. A recent AARP study found that adults aged 50-64 spend roughly 10% of their income on health coverage, and pay three times as much as their peers with employer-sponsored coverage.
“With more and more Illinois citizens losing their employer based health insurance, they must turn to the private industry; however, many times these unfair practices make it even harder for people to get the care they need,” Steans said. “This is about fairness and making sure that all Illinoisans who have to purchase private insurance plans have easier access and the quality health care they need.”
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