Slaughter Backs Measure to Prevent Price Gouging of Critical Medical Supplies

CHICAGO – In response to the state’s need for medical equipment to treat Coronavirus (COVID 19), state Rep. Justin Slaughter, D-Chicago, is supporting legislation that would help to ensure that Illinois’ hospitals have access to the medical equipment they need.  

“Health care workers are putting their lives on the line to fight the spread of COVID-19, and recent reports of the price gouging of medical equipment and supplies is egregious,” said Slaughter. “It is critical to our state’s public health that our health care workers and hospitals have affordable access to the necessary medical equipment to fight COVID-19. No one should be attempting to profit off of this pandemic.”

House Bill 5616 creates the Affordable Medical Equipment Act, which helps prevent price gouging and protects access to lifesaving medical supplies by prohibiting medical equipment from being resold at a price that is higher than the suggested resale value. This legislation will help ensure that Illinois’ hospitals and health care workers have access to the vital supplies they need to treat patients infected with COVID-19 and to protect themselves from the virus. 

“It’s paramount to our state’s public health that we do our part to ensure that all Illinoisans have access to hospitals that are well prepared to treat patients infected with this virus and that our medical professionals are able to protect themselves while saving lives,” said Slaughter. “I wholeheartedly support this legislation and will continue to fight for health and safety of all Illinois residents.” 

For more information on  the state’s response to COVID-19, please visit www.coronavirus.illinois.gov.