SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – In an effort to protect health coverage for people with pre-existing conditions, state Rep. Harper, D-Chicago, is sponsoring legislation that would outlaw insurance companies from denying people coverage because of their health conditions.

“Health care is a very contentious topic in the country right now,” said Harper. “Many people live with pre-existing conditions or other serious issues that require them to have affordable coverage. With the president attempting to roll back access to health care, I am supporting legislation that will allow our most vulnerable residents to keep their coverage.”

Harper is a sponsor of House Bill 2959, which aims to prevent insurance companies from denying people coverage based on pre-existing conditions. There are 1.3 million Illinoisans that could face potentially higher costs if Congress eliminates the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Harper feels access to health care should not be taken away from people who struggle with health issues.

“The current administration’s proposal to destroy the ACA puts the agenda at large insurance companies ahead of people,” said Harper. “This bill will allow us to take proactive steps to take care of people who will need it.”