JOLIET, Ill. – Continuing her commitment to making health care affordable and accessible to residents, state Rep. Natalie Manley, is sponsoring legislation requiring insurance companies to cover treatments to help individuals with eating disorders.

“According to the National Eating Disorder Association, over 30 million Americans have suffered from eating disorders in their lifetime with many more cases that go unreported and untreated,” Manley said. “This legislation help Illinois residents get the help they need to be able to fight this potentially life-threatening disease.”

Under Manley’s House Bill 1332 insurance companies will have to pay for medical treatment for individuals with eating disorders. The proposal includes coverage for anorexia, bulimia, pica and other eating disorders identified by the American Psychiatric Association. Under this legislation, Illinois will join other states, including Missouri, in requiring insurance companies help pay for medical care.

“As we continue to gain a better understanding of mental health disorders, we know that treatment is critical to helping people live healthier lives,” Manley said. “However, when the assistance people need is not covered by insurance companies, they are unlikely to get the help they need. I urge the governor to sign this bipartisan piece of legislation as soon as possible to ensure that residents across the state have access to affordable health care treatment for eating disorders.”

For more information, please contact Manley’s constituent service office at 815-725-2741 or RepManley@gmail.com.