LaPointe Pushes for Affordable Healthcare, Backs Health Insurance Research

CHICAGO – During this past session, state Rep. Lindsey LaPointe, D-Chicago, backed a new piece of legislation that seeks to make health care more affordable for Illinois residents. 

“The COVID-19 outbreak is exposing the unequal health outcomes that can result from an inaccessible health care system,” said LaPointe. “Investing in real solutions to make health insurance more affordable is critical to containing the spread of this outbreak and safeguarding the public health.”

To help expand access to health care, LaPointe supported Senate Bill 1864, which aims to research alternative options to make health insurance more affordable in Illinois. This measure would create the Health Care Affordability Act, which would direct state agencies charged with regulating insurance and health care to conduct a feasibility study and make recommendations for ways to make health care more affordable. The findings from this study will be reported to the General Assembly and the governor to help craft effective policy solutions. The legislation passed the House and Senate with bipartisan support.

“No family should be forced to create a virtual donation drive to pay for life-saving medical care,” LaPointe said. “In order to build a stronger and more equitable Illinois, we must work to ensure everyone has equal access to comprehensive, affordable healthcare.”

Residents can stay informed on developments with the COVID-19 pandemic by reviewing information provided on the State of Illinois’ exclusive website coronavirus.illinois.gov. Residents who want to share their thoughts or require assistance on this matter or any other issue in the community can reach LaPointe at 773-647-1174 or by email at replapointe@gmail.com.