SPRINGFIELD – To provide continuous coverage and expand services for people enrolled in Medicaid, State Senator Ann Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights) passed legislation in the Illinois Senate to create an automatic renewal process for qualifying individuals.

“Working families need stability more than ever, especially when it comes to health care coverage,” Gillespie said. “Removing the bureaucratic burdens these families face will ensure they remain covered once enrolled.”

Under current law, individuals receiving Medicaid benefits must report changes in income during the 12 months following their approval or last redetermination. House Bill 4343 would remove this reporting requirement during that time, allowing for continuity of coverage for those whose work hours and income aren’t consistent each month. The legislation would also automatically re-enroll individuals with zero income.

The package also expands Medicaid coverage to include midwife services and increases funds available for existing services, like dental care and medi-car services.

In addition to making Medicaid more accessible, the measure creates new programs administered by the Department of Healthcare and Family Services. The Wellness Checks in Schools Program will work with school districts that wish to identify students in grades 7-12 who are at risk for mental health conditions and create a referral process for appropriate intervention. HFS would also develop a program to offer clinical consultation for behavioral health providers who need assistance in caring for patients with severe mental illness or a developmental disability.

House Bill 4343 passed the Illinois Senate and awaits concurrence in the Illinois House before heading to the governor’s desk.