SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Mike Simmons was proud to support historic health care reform, House Bill 5395, which was signed into law on Wednesday.

“The Healthcare Protection Act will make health care more accessible ­for all residents in our state – a fundamental right I have been fighting for since taking office,” said Simmons (D-Chicago). “This law removes barriers for patients and doctors and ensures that insurance plans are comprehensive and effectively cover the best healthcare procedures.”

Strongly supported by Simmons, the Healthcare Protection Act tackles the issue of “ghost networks,” which arise when provider networks include doctors who aren't accepting new patients, don't accept the patient's insurance or have retired. Further, it extends the ban on unjustifiable insurance rate increases to large group plans in Illinois, ensuring access to affordable care.

Additionally, the new law improves health care accessibility and eliminates unnecessary barriers by banning prior authorization for mental health treatment and mandating the public disclosure of treatments requiring prior authorization.

CHICAGO – State Senator Mike Simmons’ new law will provide relief to more than 300,000 residents burdened by medical debt.

“Countless households and families will finally experience the long-awaited relief from extremely burdensome debts,” said Simmons (D-Chicago). “The Medical Debt Relief Act will have a profoundly broad impact on people across our state who are struggling with medical debt. At least 90% of Illinoisans burdened by medical debt live under 400% of the federal poverty level. This law will allow people to live a more prosperous life.”

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Mike Simmons’ measure to make rail travel safer for residents in response to the 2023 Chicago Transit Authority Yellow Line crash in his district was signed into law on Monday.

“This legislation is in direct response to the horrific CTA Yellow Line collision last fall,” said Simmons (D-Chicago). “So many people rely on public transportation, and as a lifelong user of Chicago public transit, I know how important it is to make sure our transit systems are held accountable to provide the most safe riding conditions possible. This law will prevent tragedies from happening through accountability required of our transit organizations.”

CHICAGO – State Senator Mike Simmons, the first openly LGBTQ+ member of the Illinois State Senate, was joined by LGBTQ+ youth, community leaders, small business owners, activists and allies at a Pride Month press conference Tuesday.