SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. Sonya Harper, D-Chicago, is sponsoring legislation that would assist more women obtain an earlier breast cancer diagnosis by expanding insurance coverage for breast cancer screenings.

“My proposal would help women in Illinois have greater access to critical breast cancer screenings,” Harper said. “Early detection is the best form of defense against this disease from spreading and becoming untreatable. This legislation would allow for more access to health care for women so they can take every precautionary method available to them. Something this serious should not be left up to chance nor left until it is too late to treat.”

Under Harper’s Senate Bill 314, more women would be able to receive magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) screenings in addition to a mammogram. While a mammogram is recommended for most women, research has shown that an additional MRI screening can increase detection for breast cancer for women with a strong family history of breast cancer. Harper’s measure would allow all women to the access the services they need so they are able to take preventative steps when necessary. Access would also be expanded to state employees and Medicaid recipients.

“Breast cancer is a terrible disease that affects too many women, and passing this legislation creates protections that women deserve and need,” Harper said. “We must take every step possible to increase early detection and save lives.”