Joined by healthcare providers and legislative leaders at Advocate Good Samaritan Hospital, Governor JB Pritzker signed legislation that will help make healthcare more accessible and affordable for Illinois residents that rely on the state’s Medicaid system. Senate Bill 2294 makes multiple changes to Illinois’ Medicaid system including expansion of the program to cover new services and the implementation of new Medicaid-adjacent services by the Illinois Department of Health and Family Services (HFS) and other agencies. The legislation provides:

• Continued Medicaid eligibility through the COVID-19 public health emergency and up to 12 months after it expires regardless of whether federally required or funded

• Veteran support specialists so our heroes receive care that recognizes their unique struggles

• New coverage of kidney transplant medications regardless of residency, building on the state’s nation-leading efforts to ensure the health of undocumented people

In addition to signing SB 2294, which takes effect immediately, Gov. Pritzker highlighted that blood supplies are at critically low levels. Hospitals have seen a rising need for blood products, and there is an urgent need for residents to donate. To find a location to donate blood, visit the American Red Cross website and enter your zip code under the ‘Find a Drive’ heading. SB 2294 is effective immediately.