Morris Bill to Improve Menopause Care, Education, and Workplace Support Passes House

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – In an effort to improve access to healthcare, expand education, and bring greater clarity to workplace protections for individuals experiencing menopause, state Rep. Yolonda Morris, D-Chicago, successfully advanced legislation out of the House, praising its passage as a meaningful step toward addressing a long-overlooked area of women’s health.

“Menopause has not always been treated with the level of attention or understanding it deserves in our healthcare and workplace systems,” Morris said. “Too many individuals are navigating symptoms like sleep disruption, memory changes, and bone health concerns without clear guidance, support, or consistent access to care.”

Menopause affects nearly all women, with approximately 80% experiencing symptoms that can significantly impact overall health, well-being, and workplace performance. Despite its widespread impact, gaps in education, insurance coverage, and workplace understanding have contributed to inconsistent support for those experiencing symptoms.

To address this, Morris is leading the effort behind House Bill 5284, the Menopause Equity and Care Act, which takes a comprehensive and practical approach to these challenges. The legislation provides accessible public educational materials to help individuals better understand menopause and available care options, ensures insurance coverage for medically necessary treatment based on established clinical guidelines, and offers optional resources for healthcare providers to support informed, evidence-based care. It also recognizes menopause-related conditions within the framework of the Illinois Human Rights Act, allowing for reasonable workplace accommodations where appropriate.

“This is about making sure people are not left to navigate this stage of life without information or support,” Morris said. “By improving education, strengthening access to care, and clarifying workplace protections, we can help individuals stay healthy and fully participate in the workforce without unnecessary barriers.”

Supporters of the legislation note that menopause is not only a healthcare issue, but also an economic and workforce issue, affecting productivity, retention, and quality of life for a significant portion of the population.

House Bill 5284 now heads to the Senate for further consideration.