Gillespie plan to strengthen housing rights for immigrants now law

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Ann Gillespie led a new law to prohibit the consideration of immigration status during real estate transactions.

“This law sets clear boundaries, protecting the rights of immigrants and ensuring that financial institutions and service providers cannot engage in discriminatory practices,” said Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights). “Putting these protections in place will promote fairness to ensure people are not unjustly denied housing.”

The Illinois Human Rights Act will now include immigration status as a protected class, making it illegal to discriminate against someone based on their immigration status when renting or selling property. Landlords and property sellers cannot refuse to rent or sell, receive or transmit offers, or negotiate the terms of a deal with someone based on their immigration status.

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Gillespie improves health insurance access, affordability in Illinois

New laws create state-based insurance marketplace, review process for insurance rate hikes

SPRINGFIELD — Thanks to the support of State Senator Ann Gillespie, Illinois residents will have more options when it comes to affordable, quality health insurance. Gillespie’s bill creating a state-based health insurance marketplace and legislation protecting consumers from unnecessary insurance rate hikes have both been signed into law.

"Today, we take a significant step forward in ensuring accessible and affordable health care for all Illinois residents," said Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights). "Expanded options and more flexibility in the kinds of coverage offered will allow individuals to choose a plan that meets their needs."

House Bill 579 establishes a state-based health insurance marketplace offering a variety of health insurance plans from different insurers. This state marketplace will allow for options different from those offered through the Health Insurance Marketplace — established under the Affordable Care Act — expanding coverage to those who may be unable to afford a plan on the federal level. Outreach to traditionally underinsured communities will allow more Illinoisans to utilize a plan that works for them and their family.

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Gillespie encourages young readers to join Summer Book Club

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS – State Senator Ann Gillespie announced the launch of her Summer Book Club designed to encourage young readers in the 27th Senate District to read over summer break.

“Reading helps students develop critical thinking skills, expand their vocabulary and learn about different cultures and perspectives,” said Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights). “I hope students will pick up a book and enjoy being transported to another world.”

To participate in the Summer Book Club, students must read eight books of their choice during the summer break, record the names of the books on a form and return the form to Gillespie’s office by Aug. 18. Each student who completes the Summer Book Club will receive a gift card to Kilwins.

Summer Book Club forms are available to download at SenatorAnnGillespie.org. For questions, call Gillespie’s office at 847-749-1880.

Gillespie’s Medicaid package signed into law

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Ann Gillespie’s comprehensive Medicaid package was signed into law today, which will expand access to care for thousands of Illinois residents and provide vital support for mental health services.

“Medicaid is a critical safety net for thousands of Illinois residents who rely on it for health care,” said Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights). “By increasing reimbursement rates, expanding services and investing in telehealth, we can help providers offer affordable, quality care.”

The new law contains numerous provisions aimed at improving Medicaid reimbursement rates and expanding services across various health care sectors. Included are rate increases for inpatient substance use disorder treatment, hospitals, supportive living facilities, community-based mental health services, and inpatient psychiatric care at hospitals. These reimbursement rate increases will bolster the availability and quality of care in these critical areas.

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