Manley Urges Governor to Sign Law Protecting Residents with Pre-Existing Conditions

JOLIET, Ill. – State Rep. Natalie Manley, D-Joliet, is urging the governor to sign legislation that would protect health care coverage for individuals with pre-existing conditions in Illinois in the event there are changes made to federal healthcare provisions.

“There is a real possibility that changes to healthcare on the federal level will leave residents with pre-existing conditions without health coverage,” Manley said. “This would be devastating to them and their families both financially and with their well-being. We need to ensure that we do not ignore these individuals here in Illinois.”

Manley backed House Bill 2959, which would prevent insurance companies in Illinois from denying access to health care coverage to people with pre-existing conditions. Pre-existing conditions that would allow insurance companies to drop coverage include arthritis, lupus, diabetes, C-sections, stroke, high cholesterol and more. The measure received bipartisan support and has been sent to the governor’s desk.

“There remains a lot of uncertainty regarding possible changes to healthcare,” Manley said. “By signing House Bill 2959, the governor can help make it clear that in Illinois we prioritize those most in need of care and assistance.”

To urge Gov. Rauner to sign House Bill 2959 and protect people with pre-existing conditions, residents can call his office at 217-782-0244.