Crespo Backs Measure to Strengthen Coverage of Pre-Existing Conditions in Illinois

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. Fred Crespo, D-Hoffman Estates, is working to ensure individuals with pre-existing conditions have access to affordable health insurance – regardless of what extreme politicians in Washington do.

“As the administration in Washington continues to attack affordable, accessible health care, it is crucial that Illinois stands up for people with pre-existing conditions,” said Crespo. “This commonsense plan will protect Illinois families from having junk insurance that doesn’t cover much and costs more.”

Crespo is backing Senate Bill 2026, which would prohibit the state from applying for a federal waiver to offer health insurance plans with reduced coverage that do not meet the standards of the Affordable Care Act (ACA). The Trump administration’s waiver process allows states to circumvent federal law and allow the sale of inadequate insurance policies that do not cover pre-existing conditions or other necessities. Crespo has previously championed protections for Illinoisans with pre-existing conditions, supporting House Bill 2959 in 2017, which offered state-level protection for people with pre-existing conditions such as cancer, diabetes and heart disease.

“Middle-class families deserve to know that the health insurance plans they select will actually meet their health care needs,” added Crespo. “I am proud to stand up for commonsense measures to protect access to affordable, quality health care.”