HC3 Celebrates Senate Approval of Extension of All Kids Bill now goes to Governor Rauner

Lawndale News Chicago's Bilingual Newspaper - Health

The Healthy Communities Cook County (HC3) Coalition commends the Illinois Senateon its leadership in passing the Covering All Kids bill, HB 5736. HB 5736 extends the Covering All Kids program until October 1, 2019, providing health coverage to more than 41,000 children. The bill passed the Senate 44-12 with seven Republicans joining most of the chamber’s Democrats. “If All Kids would have not passed, my family would have had to choose between paying rent and buying health insurance for my children,” said Rosa Romero, a leader with Communities United. “We are so grateful that All Kids passed the Senate today.”

Both ICIRR and HC3 applaud Gov. Bruce Rauner, chief sponsors Representative Lisa Hernandez and Senator Iris Martinez, House Speaker Michael Madigan, Senate President John Cullerton, Republican leaders Christine Radogno and Jim Durkin, Republican Senator Dave Syverson, and GOP Representative Patti Bellock for their support and dedication in extending health coverage to all children. HC3 would also like to acknowledge Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle and Commissioners Jesus García, Bridget Gainer and Luis Arroyo, Jr. for supporting the bill on a county level.

The All Kids program provides Illinois children with comprehensive health care, including immunizations, well-child visits, necessary medication, vision and dental care. Access to health insurance during childhood is cost-effective because it reduces mortality rates and results in fewer expensive adult emergency room visits and hospitalizations. Many families enrolled in All Kids do not have available and affordable health insurance through an employer. All Kids improves access to preventive and primary care and protects against communicable diseases, making our communities healthier. The bill now goes to Governor Rauner, who is expected to sign it.

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