Crespo Backed Legislation Passes House, Providing Protections for People with Pre-existing Conditions

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – As Donald Trump and his allies in Washington push for reckless changes to federal health care law, state Rep. Fred Crespo, D-Hoffman Estates, voted to pass protections on the state level to make sure no one in Illinois can be denied care because of their medical history.

“With everything currently going on, this was a must pass measure that will prevent big insurance companies from denying coverage to the most vulnerable, regardless of what politicians in Washington do,” Crespo said. “Middle-class families and the elderly deserve peace of mind when it comes to their health care and I’m committed to continue supporting measures that protect and expand access to life-saving services.”

Crespo voted to pass House Bill 2959, which would give state-level protections to people with pre-existing conditions like cancer, diabetes or heart disease. While Washington politicians continue fighting to repeal federal protections for these at-risk individuals, the Crespo backed bill would prevent insurance companies selling policies in Illinois from discriminating against the sickest, oldest and most in need of care. The legislation passed the House with bipartisan support.

“Over one million Illinoisans would lose access to health care coverage if Trump and his allies force through their dangerous and irresponsible changes to federal law,” Crespo said. “I urge my colleagues in the Senate and the governor to support this measure as soon as possible to make sure health care remains accessible and affordable in Illinois.”

House Bill 2959 now heads to the Senate for consideration.

Crespo represents the 44th District, which includes all or portions of Bartlett, Elgin, Hanover Park, Hoffman Estates, Schaumburg and Streamwood.