Grasse Advances Bills Targeting Public Health to House Floor

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Working to improve public health and alleviate bureaucratic burdens, state Rep. Nicolle Grasse, D-Arlington Heights, passed a series of measures out of House committees last week addressing several challenges in healthcare.

“These measures take meaningful steps to expand access, improve patient care, and strengthen accountability in our healthcare system,” said Grasse. “By addressing critical gaps, we’re ensuring better outcomes for those who need it the most.”

Notably, Grasse passed House Bill 2493 out of its committee requiring county clerks to create a remote marriage application process, allowing those in hospice or impaired by disability to go through the marriage application process with their partner in a remote setting.

Aiming to expand coverage and improve healthcare efficiencies, Grasse’s House Bill 3699 requires insurance to start covering any medically necessary prescribed vitamins. Additionally Grasse garnered the votes to pass House Bill 2371, streamlining reimbursement and removing out of pocket costs for dental patients. And, Grasse’s House Bill 3849 authorizes hospice or home health service employees to deliver a patient’s prescription order or controlled substance — ensuring essential medications are delivered faster.

To increase accountability in healthcare, Grasse’s House Bill 1712 further protects patients’ end of life medical preferences, requiring the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) to establish clear oversight and uniform training to ensure adherence to POLST forms — documents that guide emergency and long-term care for patients.

Plus, Grasse’s House Bill 2397 responds to the rising number of deaths of incarcerated elderly by requiring IDOC to publicly report on Hospice and Palliative Care, giving the legislature insight into the true state of hospice care in correctional facilities. Similarly, House Bill 2877 would require the Hospice and Palliative Care Advisory Board to inform the legislature on the state of care for those experiencing a serious or life-limiting illness, in order to provide actionable recommendations for state hospice and palliative standards.

“I’m thrilled to gain bipartisan support with many of these measures which will positively impact healthcare patients and providers,” said Grasse. “I look forward to bringing these in front of the House floor and getting smart pieces of policy across the finish line.”