Bills

HB1100 - HEALTH CARE-ACCESS TO RECORDS

Amends the Medical Patient Rights Act. Creates the right of each patient to request access to and be provided with an electronic record of the patient's health information free of charge. Provides that, if a request pursuant to this right is made by a patient or the patient's representative and the records are readily producible in an electronic format, the health care provider shall provide the patient or the patient's representative with access to the requested records in an electronic format.

HB1124 - AGING-LONG TERM CARE OMBUDSMAN

Amends the Illinois Act on the Aging. In provisions concerning the Long Term Care Ombudsman Program, requires each long term care facility, supportive living facility, assisted living establishment, shared housing establishment, and State-operated developmental center to display, in multiple, conspicuous public places within the facility accessible to both visitors and residents and in an easily readable format, the address and statewide toll-free telephone number (rather than phone number) of the Long Term Care Ombudsman Program and the Internet web address of the Long Term Care Ombudsman Program's website. Requires each long term care facility, supportive living facility, assisted living establishment, shared housing establishment, and State-operated developmental center to post on the home page of the facility's website the statewide toll-free telephone number of the Long Term Care Ombudsman Program and a link to the Long Term Care Ombudsman Program's website.

HB1141 - GENERAL ANESTHESIA COVERAGE

HB1287 - HEALTH FACILITIES-AED REQUIRED

Amends the Assisted Living and Shared Housing Act, the Nursing Home Care Act, the MC/DD Act, the ID/DD Community Care Act, and the Illinois Public Aid Code. Provides that the administrator of a facility or establishment under any of those Acts shall ensure that the facility or establishment has an automated external defibrillator and policies and procedures for the rendering of automated external defibrillation in the facility or establishment. Provides course requirements for persons certified to provide automated external defibrillation. Provides that a facility or establishment shall contract with or employ a physician who shall be the automated external defibrillation medical director for the facility or establishment and who shall oversee and coordinate specified requirements.

HB1301 - RURAL HOSPITAL TASK FORCE

House Bill 1301 proposes the creation of the Rural Hospital Task Force within the Department of Public Health. The primary objectives of this Task Force are to investigate the current state of rural hospitals and to provide recommendations aimed at preventing further closures and potentially expanding services offered by these hospitals. 

The Task Force is mandated to convene on at least four separate occasions to conduct its business. It is required to submit all findings and recommendations to the General Assembly before January 1, 2027, after which the Task Force will be dissolved, and the Act will be repealed on that date. 

Benefits to Counties:

The establishment of the Rural Hospital Task Force presents several potential benefits to counties, particularly those in rural areas:

1. Improved Healthcare Access: By assessing the challenges faced by rural hospitals and recommending strategies to prevent their closure, the Task Force aims to ensure that residents in rural counties continue to have access to essential healthcare services.

2. Economic Stability: Hospitals often serve as significant employers and economic drivers in rural communities. Preventing hospital closures can help maintain employment levels and support local economies.

3. Enhanced Services: The Task Force’s recommendations may lead to the expansion of services provided by rural hospitals, offering residents access to a broader range of healthcare options locally.

4. Data-Driven Policy Making: With the Task Force’s findings, counties will have access to comprehensive data and analyses, enabling them to advocate for policies and resources tailored to their specific healthcare needs.

HB 1301 seeks to address the challenges faced by rural hospitals in Illinois, with the ultimate goal of ensuring that rural counties maintain robust healthcare infrastructures to serve their populations effectively.

HB1325 - SOUTH SUBURBAN TRAUMA CENTER

Amends the Illinois Health Facilities Planning Act. Creates the South Suburban Trauma Center Fund as a special fund in the State treasury. Specifies that certain toll surcharges are to be deposited in the Fund and used for a suburban trauma center to be situated on the border between Calumet City and the Village of Dolton. Describes additional duties of the Health Facilities and Services Review Board regarding the establishment of a south suburban trauma center. Amends the Toll Highway Act. Imposes a toll surcharge at a specific toll plaza. Amends the State Finance Act to make conforming changes. Effective immediately.

HB1332 - HOSPITAL EMERGENCY CONTACT

Amends the Caregiver Advise, Record, and Enable Act. Changes the short title to the Emergency Contact and Caregiver Act. Makes changes to defined terms. Provides that, following the patient's admission into the hospital as an inpatient, a hospital shall provide each patient or, if applicable, the patient's legal representative with an opportunity to designate a caregiver following the patient's admission into the hospital as an inpatient and prior to the patient's discharge (rather than only prior to the patient's discharge) to the patient's residence or transfer to another facility. Requires a hospital, as soon as practicable, to notify the emergency contact of the patient's death (rather than notify a patient's emergency contact of the patient's death or if the patient's condition has become life threatening) if a patient has authorized the hospital to share protected health information with an emergency contact that is not the patient's legal representative and the patient's legal representative does not object. Limits the liability of hospitals who attempt to contact an emergency contact. Removes provisions concerning failure to contact the patient's emergency contact. Provides that, if a patient fails to authorize the hospital to share the patient's protected health information or revokes such authorization, the hospital may contact the emergency contact only as otherwise allowed by law. Makes other changes.

HB1431 - FACILITY FEE TRANSPARENCY

Creates the Health Care Facility Fee Transparency Act. Sets forth provisions concerning notice requirements for a hospital or health system that charges a facility fee using a current procedural terminology evaluation code or assessment and management code for outpatient services provided at a hospital-based facility where a professional fee is also expected to be charged. Provides notice requirements for hospital-based facilities created or acquired through a business transaction. Establishes limitations on facility fees. Sets forth provisions concerning facility fee billing statements, reporting of facility fees charged by each hospital and health system, and enforcement of the Act by the Department of Public Health. Amends the Consumer Fraud and Deceptive Business Practices Act. Provides that it is an unlawful practice if, from the date of the transaction, a hospital, health system, or hospital-based facility does not wait at least 30 days after the written notice has been mailed to the patient or a copy of the notice has been filed with the Department of Public Health to collect a facility fee for services provided at a hospital-based facility.

HB1434 - HLTH CARE FACILITY FEE ACT

Creates the Health Care Facility Fee Transparency Act. Defines terms. Requires hospitals or health care systems to provide transparency, including written notices and proper signage, regarding facility fees, with certain requirements. Provides that a failure to comply with these requirements constitutes an unlawful practice under the Consumer Fraud and Deceptive Business Practices Act. Amends the Consumer Fraud and Deceptive Business Practices Act. Adds the Health Care Facility Fee Transparency Act to the list of other Acts that constitute a violation of the Consumer Fraud and Deceptive Business Practices Act.

HB1443 - HEALTH CARE AVAILABILITY

Creates the Health Care Availability and Access Board Act. Establishes the Health Care Availability and Access Board to protect State residents, State and local governments, commercial health plans, health care providers, pharmacies licensed in the State, and other stakeholders within the health care system from the high costs of prescription drug products. Contains provisions concerning Board membership and terms; staff for the Board; Board meetings; circumstances under which Board members must recuse themselves; and other matters. Provides that the Board shall perform the following actions in open session: (i) deliberations on whether to subject a prescription drug product to a cost review; and (ii) any vote on whether to impose an upper payment limit on purchases, payments, and payor reimbursements of prescription drug products in the State. Permits the Board to adopt rules to implement the Act and to enter into a contract with a qualified, independent third party for any service necessary to carry out the powers and duties of the Board. Creates the Health Care Availability and Access Stakeholder Council to provide stakeholder input to assist the Board in making decisions as required by the Act. Contains provisions concerning Council membership, member terms, and other matters. Provides that the Board shall adopt the federal Medicare Maximum Fair Price as the upper payment limit for a prescription drug product intended for use by individuals in the State. Prohibits the Board from creating an upper payment limit that is different from the Medicare Maximum Fair Price for the prescription drug product that has a Medicare Maximum Fair Price. Requires the Board to implement an upper payment limit that is the same as the Medicare Maximum Fair Price no sooner than the Medicare implementation date. Provides that Medicare Part C and D plans are not required to reimburse at the upper payment limit. Provides that the Attorney General may enforce the Act and may pursue any available remedy under State law when enforcing the Act. Effective 180 days after becoming law.

HB1569 - MEDICALLY NECESSARY VACCINE

Creates the Access to Medically Necessary Vaccinations Act. Provides that any health care provider in this State must provide a vaccination to a patient if: the patient has requested the specific vaccination to be administered; the health care provider has determined that the vaccination is medically necessary; and the health care provider has a stock of one or more doses of the vaccination that have not been reserved for another patient. Prohibits a health care provider from preventing a medically necessary vaccination from being administered to a patient by keeping separate stocks of the vaccination for patients with private insurance and stocks of the vaccination for patients with Medicaid.

HB1587 - HEALTH FACILITY-OUTDOOR ACCESS

Amends the Nursing Home Care Act and the Specialized Mental Health Rehabilitation Act of 2013. Provides that residents of nursing home facilities have the right to outdoor access. Provides that residents of nursing home facilities and consumers served by mental health rehabilitation facilities shall be free to enter and leave the facilities as they choose. Provides that a facility may suspend this right only if the resident's or consumer's physician examines the resident or consumer and determines that leaving the facility would pose a danger to other residents or consumers or an immediate and substantial danger to the resident's or consumer's safety and well-being, which shall be explained to the resident or consumer and documented in the resident's or consumer's medical chart.

HB1597 - FACILITY-TRANSFER & DISCHARGE

Amends the Assisted Living and Shared Housing Act and the Nursing Home Care Act to ensure that residents are not unlawfully transferred or discharged. Facilities must notify residents and their representatives of significant condition changes, and cannot reduce or terminate services to force a resident out. The bill establishes new procedures and requirements for involuntary discharges, including residents' rights and facility obligations.

It also imposes a $2,500 fine on facilities that fail to comply with Department of Public Health orders to readmit unlawfully discharged residents and requires notification to the Department when readmission occurs. Facilities can only discharge a resident involuntarily if their medical needs exceed the facility's capacity, as documented by a physician. The Department retains oversight authority regardless of the timing of notices. The bill, with adjustments from a committee amendment, takes effect January 1, 2026.

HB1626 - HOSPITALS-FENTANYL TESTING

Amends the Hospital Licensing Act. Provides that, if an individual is treated at a hospital and the hospital conducts a urine drug screening to assist in diagnosing the individual's condition, the hospital shall include testing for fentanyl in the individual's urine screening. Provides that if the urine drug screening, conducted in accordance with the provisions, detects fentanyl, the hospital shall report the test results, which shall be deidentified, to the Department of Public Health through the State-designated health information exchange. Provides that a hospital that does not have chemical analyzer equipment is not subject to the provisions. Provides that the provisions do not affect any State law which provides civil or criminal immunity to an individual who is in need of medical assistance after ingesting or using alcohol or drugs or to an individual who, in good faith, assists another who is in need of medical assistance after ingesting or using alcohol or drugs. Effective immediately.

HB1697 - PRESCRIPTION DRUG AFFORDABILITY ACT

The Prescription Drug Affordability Act, includes comprehensive reforms related to pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) and prescription drug access in Illinois. Beginning January 1, 2026, the bill prohibits PBMs from practices like spread pricing, drug steering, and limiting access to pharmacies. It requires PBMs to remit 100% of manufacturer rebates and mandates transparency through annual reporting and audits. The bill establishes licensing and fee requirements for PBMs based on the number of covered individuals. It also supports grants to pharmacies through the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity to improve access. Additional provisions ensure compliance with these regulations across state insurance programs, public aid, corrections, and education systems. Initially, the bill proposed CPR training for emergency telecommunicators, but that language was removed in favor of the broader prescription drug affordability measures.

HB1712 - DPH-POLST TRAINING

Amends the Department of Public Health Powers and Duties Law of the Civil Administrative Code of Illinois. Provides that the Department of Public Health shall approve training resources to support informed decisions and accurate completion of the Department of Public Health Uniform POLST form. Provides that the Department of Public Health shall post approved POLST training material to the Department website. Provides that the Department of Public Health shall establish a simple, efficient, and effective process to make available yearly training to support informed decisions and accurate completion of the Department of Public Health Uniform POLST form for personnel employed by or contracted with facilities licensed under the Nursing Home Care Act and providers that use the Department of Public Health Uniform POLST form.

HB1754 - TICK ACT

Creates the Tracking Infectious Cases Knowledgeably Act. Provides that the Act may be referred to as the TICK Act. Provides that the Department of Public Health shall adopt rules no later than January 1, 2026, requiring medical reporters to report cases of alpha-gal syndrome to the local health department and the Department of Public Health on the date of the diagnosis under the Control of Communicable Diseases Code. Provides that any case of alpha-gal syndrome in an Illinois resident that has been diagnosed by a medical professional shall be reported to, and tracked by, the Department, independent from or concurrent with reporting and tracking by the federal government. Defines terms. Makes findings. Effective immediately.

HB1868 - MEDICAID-SAFETY-NET HOSPITALS

Amends the Hospital Provider Funding Article of the Illinois Public Aid Code. In a provision requiring the Department of Healthcare and Family Services to create a pool of funding of at least $50,000,000 annually to be disbursed among safety-net hospitals that maintain perinatal designation from the Department of Public Health, provides that no safety-net hospital eligible for funds shall receive less than $5,000,000 annually.

HB1910 - LIBRARIES-OPIOID ANTAGONISTS

Amends the Illinois Local Library Act. Provides that all libraries open to the general public in the State shall maintain a supply of opioid antagonists in an accessible location. Provides that any authorized personnel may administer an opioid antagonist to any person whom the authorized personnel believes, in good faith, to be having an opioid overdose (i) on library grounds; (ii) in the immediate vicinity of the library; or (iii) at a library-sponsored event. Requires libraries to ensure that during all operating hours, there is at least one person present in the library who has completed training in how to recognize and respond to an opioid overdose, including the administration of an opioid antagonist. Requires the Director of the Department of Public Health to identify organizations qualified to offer the training. Provides that the health department of any county where a Library is located may provide, either directly or through providing necessary funds, a supply of opioid antagonists to the library. Allows the Department to adopt rules to implement the provisions. Makes conforming changes in the Pharmacy Practice Act.

HB1931 - HOSPITAL WORKFORCE INSURANCE

Amends the Department of Insurance Law of the Civil Administrative Code of Illinois. Requires the Department of Insurance to conduct a study to better understand the gaps in health insurance coverage for uninsured residents, including the reasons why individuals are uninsured and whether insured individuals are insured through an employer-sponsored plan or through the Illinois health insurance marketplace. Requires the Department to submit a report of its findings and recommendations to the General Assembly 12 months after the effective date of the amendatory Act. Amends the Hospital Licensing Act and the University of Illinois Hospital Act. Provides that hospitals licensed under the Act shall provide health insurance coverage to all of their workforce.

HB2341 - $IDPH-LOCAL HEALTH PROT GRANT

Appropriates $10,000,000 from the General Revenue Fund to the Department of Public Health for local health protection grants for health protection programs. Effective July 1, 2025.

HB2351 - BD HIGHER ED-MEDICAL RESIDENCY

Amends the Comprehensive Healthcare Workforce Planning Act. Requires the State Healthcare Workforce Council to coordinate the State's health workforce education and training to develop a health workforce that meets the State's health care needs. Requires the Council to work with graduate medical education and training programs, health professions, and consumer representatives to address specified issues. Amends the Board of Higher Education Act. Requires the Board of Higher Education to establish a program to provide: (1) funding for medical residency positions that are not funded by the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services or other established funding source; (2) technical assistance for entities that wish to establish a residency program; and (3) startup funding for entities that wish to establish a residency program. Sets forth provisions concerning the application process and priority. Requires the Board to establish an application process for an entity seeking funding. Provides that the State Healthcare Workforce Council shall provide information annually to the Board related to workforce shortages to assist in the development of the application and shall be responsible for reviewing applications and making recommendations to the Board regarding funding recipients. Creates the Medical Residency Education Fund to expand graduate medical education opportunities in the State and maximize the delivery of medical care and physician services to specific areas of the State where there is a recognized unmet priority need for medical care and physician services. Makes other changes. Makes a conforming change in the State Finance Act.

HB2423 - MEDICAID-MATERNAL HLTH-DOULAS

House Amendment 2

House Floor Amendment 2 to HB 2423 introduces requirements that support the integration of Medicaid-certified doulas into obstetric and birthing care settings in Illinois, particularly for patients enrolled in the state’s medical assistance program.

Key Provisions:

1. Policy Requirements for Hospitals and Birthing Centers

Within six months of the amendment’s enactment, all hospitals with licensed obstetric beds and birthing centers must:

• Adopt and maintain written policies and procedures allowing Medicaid patients to have an Illinois Medicaid certified and enrolled doula of their choice accompany them.

• Permit doulas to provide support before, during, and after childbirth on the facility premises.

2. Doula Not Counted Against Guest Limits

A certified Medicaid doula must not be counted as a support person or included in any facility-imposed guest quota limits, ensuring separate and protected access.

3. Transparency and Communication

Facilities must post a summary of their policies on their website, including:

• Contact information for coordination between the facility and Medicaid-enrolled doulas or doula organizations.

4. Limitations and Liability Protections

The amendment:

• Does not require patient access to doulas if such access is inconsistent with accepted medical practices.

• Does not alter or expand hospital malpractice liability, preserving current protections under Illinois law.

5. Documentation Requirement for Doulas

Doulas must provide written proof of certification and Medicaid enrollment upon request from the hospital or birthing center.

6. Regulatory Support

The Departments of Healthcare and Family Services and Public Health may create standing recommendations to ensure compliance with federal CMS requirements and to promote access to preventive services.

Potential County Impact:

• County Hospitals: County-operated or affiliated hospitals with obstetric services will need to update policies, train staff, and develop communication procedures to ensure doula access.

• Public Health Role: County health departments may play a role in coordinating doula networks, supporting Medicaid enrollment for doulas, and ensuring compliance.

• Patient Support and Outcomes: The amendment may improve maternal health outcomes and patient satisfaction for Medicaid enrollees, particularly in underserved areas.

In summary, this amendment enhances support for birthing individuals on Medicaid by guaranteeing their right to doula services in approved settings, formalizing facility responsibilities, and safeguarding both patient safety and hospital liability protections.

HB2507 - MEDICAID-NURSING PAYMENTS

Amends the Medical Assistance Article of the Illinois Public Aid Code. Provides that for the calendar year beginning January 1, 2026, and each calendar year thereafter, a nursing facility must spend at least 90% of its adjusted total revenue on resident care and other resident-related costs, as defined. Requires each nursing facility to provide as part of its financial reporting information necessary for the Department of Healthcare and Family Services to administer and enforce the provisions of the amendatory Act. Provides that such information shall be subject to audit provisions and comply with any applicable uniform standards under the Code. Provides that all non-allowable costs, related party adjustments, or compensation to owners reported shall be excluded from the calculation of the amount spent on resident care and other resident-related costs. Requires 25% of costs associated with contract nursing staff to be deducted from the amount spent on resident care and other resident-related costs. Provides that for the calendar year beginning January 1, 2027, and each calendar year thereafter, the Department shall use the required financial reporting submissions to determine whether each nursing facility has met the minimum resident care percent requirement. Provides that if a facility has not met the minimum resident care percent requirement, the amount defined by the facility's total adjusted revenue shall be treated as a vendor overpayment. Requires the Department to recover the full amount of any vendor overpayment by reducing future payments, requiring direct payment to the Department, or any other method permitted under the Code. Requires the Department to adopt rules.

HB2550 - DHFS-ALZHEIMER CARE UNIT RATES

Amends the Medical Assistance Article of the Illinois Public Aid Code. Provides that beginning January 1, 2026, the rate must be multiplied by 5 for nursing facilities which have disclosed their status as Alzheimer's special care units under the requirements of the Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias Special Care Disclosure Act. Requires the Department of Healthcare and Family Services to update the status for nursing facilities for rates in effect each January 1.

HB2580 - DHS-GAMBLING DISORDERS

Amends the Substance Use Disorder Act. In provisions requiring the Department of Human Services to establish a public education program regarding gambling disorders, requires the program to (i) promote public awareness regarding the impact of gambling disorders on individuals, families, and communities and the stigma that surrounds gambling disorders and (ii) use screening, crisis intervention, treatment, public awareness, prevention, in-service training, and other innovative means to decrease the incidence of suicide attempts related to gambling disorders or gambling issues. Requires the Department to select the statement regarding obtaining assistance with a gambling disorder, which each licensed gambling establishment owner shall post, and each master sports wagering licensee shall include, on the master sports wagering licensee's portal, Internet website, or computer or mobile application. Permits the Department to provide advice to State and local officials on gambling disorders; to support gambling disorder prevention, recognition, treatment, and recovery projects; to collaborate with other community-based organizations, substance use disorder treatment centers, or other health care providers engaged in treating individuals who are experiencing gambling disorders; and to perform other actions. Allows the Department to award grants to create or support local gambling prevention, recognition, and response projects. Makes other changes.

HB2597 - COVID-19 RELIGIOUS EXEMPTION

Creates the COVID-19 Religious Exemption Act. Provides that it shall be unlawful for any person, public or private institution, or public official to discriminate against any person in any manner because of such person's refusal to obtain, receive, or accept a COVID-19 vaccination contrary to his or her belief. Requires all health care facilities to adopt written access to care and information protocols that are designed to ensure that belief-based objections do not cause impairment of patients' health and that explain how belief-based objections will be addressed in a timely manner to facilitate patient care. Provides that it is unlawful for any public or private employer, entity, agency, institution, official, or person to deny admission because of, to place any reference in its application form concerning, to orally question about, to impose any burdens in terms or conditions of employment on, or to otherwise discriminate against, any applicant, in terms of employment, admission to or participation in any programs for which the applicant is eligible, or to discriminate in relation thereto, in any other manner, on account of the applicant's refusal to obtain, receive, or accept a COVID-19 vaccination that is against the applicant's beliefs. Provides that it is unlawful for any public official, guardian, agency, institution, or entity to deny any form of aid, assistance, or benefits, or to condition the reception in any way of any form of aid, assistance, or benefits, or in any other manner to coerce, disqualify, or discriminate against any person, otherwise entitled to such aid, assistance, or benefits, because that person refuses to obtain, receive, or accept a COVID-19 vaccination contrary to the person's belief. Allows any person injured by any public or private person, association, agency, entity, or corporation by reason of any action prohibited by the Act to bring an action. Provides that a person who brings an action shall recover threefold the actual damages, the costs of the action, and reasonable attorney's fees, but in no case shall recovery for each violation be less than $2,500 plus costs of the action and reasonable attorney's fees. Makes other changes. Effective immediately.

HB2693 - STATE AGENCY BONUS PROHIBITION

Creates the State Agency and Grantee Bonus Prohibition Act. Provides that no State agency or hospital shall pay from State funds, in whole or in part, and no employee of a State agency or hospital may receive a bonus as all or part of his or her compensation, including such bonuses as may be received for work on capital projects. Provides that no grantee shall pay, and no employee or contract worker of a grantee may receive, a bonus paid from grant funds awarded for operational expenses as all or part of his or her compensation, including such bonuses as may be received for work on capital projects. Provides that State agencies who use bonuses paid to State employees shall provide an annual report to the General Assembly itemizing each bonus awarded, including the amount of the bonuses awarded, the purpose of the bonus, the position of the employees to whom bonuses were awarded, and the overall agency fiscal impact for the bonuses awarded in the prior fiscal year. Effective immediately.

HB2771 - DPH-CERTIFICATE FEES

Amends the Hospital Provider Funding Article of the Illinois Public Aid Code. Increases the annual assessment on hospital providers for inpatient and outpatient services. Makes implementation of the increases contingent on federal approval of specified directed payment increases to hospitals. Contains provisions concerning the determination of a hospital's occupied and Medicare bed days. Provides that, upon federal approval of the directed payment increases to hospitals, the Department of Healthcare and Family Services shall bill hospitals for the total tax due resulting from the assessment increases. Makes changes to provisions concerning a requirement for the Department to list the monthly assessment amount owed by each hospital and any unpaid assessment amounts that are more than 90 days delinquent; the withholding of reimbursements as payment for unpaid assessments, with some exceptions; specified transfer amounts from the Hospital Provider Fund to the Health and Human Services Medicaid Trust Fund, the Long-Term Care Provider Fund, and the Healthcare Provider Relief Fund; safety-net hospitals that elect to remain in the high Medicaid hospital class for purpose of receiving directed payments for certain services; rates increases for fixed pool directed payments and fixed rate directed payments, subject to federal approval; and other matters. Permits the Department to adopt emergency rules to implement the amendatory Act. Effective immediately.

HB2776 - DHFS-LTC PROVIDER ASSESSMENTS

Amends the Long-Term Care Provider Funding Article of the Illinois Public Aid Code. Provides that any increase in any authorized long-term care provider assessment must: (1) comply with all federal regulations for provider assessments; (2) require that all revenues from an increase in the assessed rates are applied to nursing facility rates for staffing incentives and to improve the quality of care as described in specified provisions under Article V of the Code; (3) not increase the assessed rate of $7 per occupied bed day for non-profit nursing facilities without Medicaid-certified beds or any nursing facility owned and operated by a county government; (4) maintain the 2.1 to 1 ratio between the highest tax rate and lowest tax rate; and (5) not increase any tax rate proportionally more than any other tax rate. Effective immediately.

HB2783 - CMS-MENSTRUAL PRODUCTS

Amends the Department of Central Management Services Law of the Civil Administrative Code of Illinois. Provides that it is the duty of the Department of Central Management Services to provide free menstrual hygiene products in all State government buildings and in any public restrooms maintained by the State government that are not designated as male-only restrooms. Provides that it is the policy of the State of Illinois to provide free menstrual hygiene products in all State government buildings, unit of local government buildings, and school district buildings, and in all public restrooms maintained by any of those entities that are not designated as male-only restrooms. Provides that the Department shall coordinate with units of local government and school districts and may award grants to units of local government or school districts to effectuate this policy. Provides that the Department shall coordinate with school districts to ensure that, in the case of the provision of menstrual hygiene products in school restrooms, the employee or third-party contractor who is normally responsible for ordering, stocking, and replenishing the supply of toilet tissue and paper towels in school restrooms shall also be responsible for ordering, stocking, and replenishing the supply of menstrual hygiene products in the school restrooms. Allows the Department to adopt rules. Effective January 1, 2026.

HB2804 - CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES-FENTANYL

Amends the Illinois Controlled Substances Act. Provides that in addition to any other penalties provided by law, a person knowingly and unlawfully selling or dispensing any scheduled drug containing a detectable amount of fentanyl is guilty of a Class X felony and shall be sentenced to a term of imprisonment of not less than 9 years and not more than 40 years or fined not more than $250,000, or both. Provides that it is a Class 1 felony for which a fine not to exceed $100,000 may be imposed for any person to knowingly use an electronic communication device in the furtherance of controlled substance trafficking involving a substance containing any amount of fentanyl. Provides that this penalty shall be in addition to any other penalties imposed by law. Provides that in addition to any other penalties imposed, not less than 6 years and not more than 30 years shall be imposed with respect to any amount of carfentanil or fentanyl, or any analog thereof, in excess of 150 milligrams that is stored or transmitted as a powder, blotter paper, tablet, patch, or spray. Provides that in addition to any other penalties imposed, with respect to fentanyl, or an analog thereof, an additional sentence of 5 years shall be imposed if the fentanyl or analog thereof is in a form that resembles, or was mixed, granulated, absorbed, adsorbed, spray-dried, aerosolized as or onto, coated on in whole or in part, or solubilized with or into, a product, where the product or its packaging further has at least one of the following attributes: (1) a resemblance to the trade dress of a consumer food product, branded food product, or logo food product, or incorporates an actual or satirical version of a registered trademark, service mark, or copyright; (2) a bright color or coloring scheme; (3) the appearance of a cereal, candy, vitamin, gummy, or chewable product such as a gum or gelatin-based product; (4) a cartoon character imprint; or (5) incorporation into a separate product or package approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration, or approved by a regulatory agency for food or drug products in another country, if the addition of fentanyl, carfentanil, or any analog thereof, would render the approved product an adulterated product under the standards of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, or any law of this State or administrative rule. Defines "electronic communication device".

HB2812 - PATIENT RIGHTS-NEXT OF KIN

Amends the Medical Patient Rights Act. Provides that every health care facility in this State shall permit the next of kin of a patient who is on life support to remain with the patient, at the patient's bedside, irrespective of regular hours of visitation. Provides that health care facilities may institute reasonable policies, including reasonable requirements that promote the health, safety, and welfare of the next of kin, the patient, and the employees and other patients of the health care facility without revoking the basic right afforded to the next of kin of a patient who is on life support. Defines "next of kin".

HB2852 - NONOPIOID ALTERNATIVES ACT

Creates the Nonopioid Alternatives for Pain Act. Allows the Department of Public Health to develop and publish on its website a nonopioid alternatives pamphlet, with certain requirements. Prohibits a health insurance issuer to deny coverage of a nonopioid prescription drug in favor of an opioid prescription drug. Amends the Illinois Public Aid Code. Provides that coverage shall not be denied for a nonopioid prescription drug in favor of an opioid prescription drug. Requires that nonopioid drugs preferred on a specific list for the treatment or management of pain shall not be disadvantaged or discouraged with respect to coverage relative to any opioid or narcotic drug for the treatment or management of pain. Effective July 1, 2027.

HB2858 - MEDICAID-NURSING FACILTY RATES

Amends the Medical Assistance Article of the Illinois Public Aid Code. Provides that subject to federal approval, beginning on January 1, 2026, the reimbursement rates for the support component of the nursing facility rate for facilities licensed under the Nursing Home Care Act as skilled or intermediate care facilities and for facilities licensed under the Specialized Mental Health Rehabilitation Act of 2013 shall be the rate in effect on June 30, 2024 increased by the percent change in the Consumer Price Index-U from September 2016 to September 2025. Effective immediately.

HB2922 - NURSING HOME-STAFFING RATIO

Amends the Nursing Home Care Act. Adds infection preventionists, minimum data set assessment nurses, other social workers, certified nursing assistant interns, and medication aides to the list of direct care staff used to compute staff to resident ratios. Provides that, except as otherwise provided by law, 100% of the hours worked by the specified staff shall be counted toward the staff to resident ratio. Provides that no monetary penalties shall be imposed unless the variance between a facility's minimum staffing ratios and the Department of Public Health's computations exceeds 20%. Removes a provision prohibiting waiver of a monetary penalty for non-compliance. In provisions concerning reporting requirements for facilities that violate the minimum staffing requirements, provides that the facility must have a variance that exceeds 20% of the requirements. Makes other changes. Effective immediately.

HB2931 - IDPH-FENTANYL AWARENESS

Amends the Department of Public Health Powers and Duties Law of the Civil Administrative Code of Illinois. Provides that the Department of Public Health shall, in consultation with appropriate agencies and organizations, establish a public awareness campaign to assist the public in understanding the harm of abusing fentanyl, with certain requirements.

HB2939 - AGING-DHS-GRANT ASSISTANCE

Amends the Illinois Act on the Aging, the Children and Family Services Act, the Department of Human Services Act, and the Department of Public Health Powers and Duties Law. Requires the Department on Aging, and the Departments of Children and Family Services, Human Services, and Public Health to provide technical assistance in the form of training to local governmental entities and not-for-profit human service entities located within Illinois that request such assistance for the purpose of procuring grants. Requires the Departments to prioritize entities that: (i) are current grant recipients and are routinely noncompliant with grant award requirements; and (ii) have lost Department grant funding in the last 5 years and are seeking to reapply for grant funding. Requires the Departments to adopt rules. Effective July 1, 2025.

HB2944 - MEDICAID-EXTENDED HOSP STAYS

Amends the Medical Assistance Article of the Illinois Public Aid Code. Provides that for an extended hospital stay beyond medical necessity due to multiple failed attempts to place an emergency room patient who presented for dementia or other long-term care needs into a nursing or other long-term care facility, the Department of Healthcare and Family Services shall reimburse the hospital at a rate calculated to cover the entire hospital stay if (i) the hospital presents documentation, as prescribed by the Department, of multiple unsuccessful attempts to place the patient in a nursing or other long-term care facility and (ii) if each nursing or long-term care facility the hospital solicited for placement gave a substantially similar reason for denying the patient admission.

HB2952 - PUBLIC BUILDINGS-BABY STATIONS

Amends the Equitable Restrooms Act. In provisions concerning baby changing stations, provides that hotels and lodging facilities; public and private schools and educational institutions; small entertainment venues including, movie theaters and bowling alleys; healthcare facilities with public restrooms; transit public parks with restroom facilities; and standalone public parks with restroom facilities are subject to the provisions. Provides that a retail store of more than 3,000 square feet (rather than 5,000 square feet) that contain a restroom open to the public are subject to the provisions. Provides that a restaurant that has an occupancy of at least 40 persons (rather than 60 persons), among other criteria, are subject to the provisions of the Act.

HB3018 - $PUBLIC HEALTH-CLINICS

Appropriates $9,000,000 from the General Revenue Fund to the Department of Public Health for continued funding to the Illinois Association of Free and Charitable Clinics. Effective July 1, 2025.

HB3127 - KRATOM CONSUMER PROTECTION

Creates the Kratom Consumer Protection Act. Establishes safety requirements for the preparation, distribution, sale, and offer for sale of Kratom products and extracts. Prohibits the preparation, distribution, sale, and offer for sale of adulterated Kratom products and extracts. Provides that a processor of Kratom products that violates the Act is subject to an administrative penalty of not more than $5,000 for the first offense and not more than $10,000 for the second or subsequent offense. Provides that the penalty shall be collected by the Department of Public Health and paid into the Food and Drug Safety Fund. Requires, upon the request of a person to whom an administrative penalty is issued, the Director of Public Health to conduct a hearing in accordance with the Illinois Administrative Procedure Act. Provides that a processor shall not knowingly distribute, sell, or offer for sale a Kratom product to a person under 21 years of age. Provides that a person who violates the age restrictions shall be punished as provided in the Kratom Control Act. Provides that a processor does not violate the Act if it is shown by a preponderance of the evidence that the processor relied in good faith upon the representations of a manufacturer, processor, packer, or distributor of food represented to be a Kratom product. Amends the Kratom Control Act. Changes the age in which a person may not purchase and possess and to whom Kratom may not be sold, bought for, distributed samples of, or furnished from under 18 years of age to under 21 years of age. Provides that no person or entity shall advertise a product containing any quantity of Kratom, in any form or medium, within 1,000 feet of the perimeter of school grounds, a playground, a recreation center or facility, a child care center, a public park or public library, or a game arcade that admits persons under 21 years of age. Provides that no person or entity shall sell a product containing any quantity of Kratom, in any form or through any medium, within 1,000 feet of the perimeter of school grounds, a playground, a recreation center or facility, a child care center, a public park or public library, or a game arcade that admits persons under 21 years of age. Provides that a violation is a business offense punishable by a fine not to exceed $5,000.

HB3129 - KRATOM-SCHEDULE III

HB3163 - REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH-PRIVACY

Amends the Reproductive Health Act. Provides that a health care professional who provides abortion-related care may submit to any governmental agency, person, business, or association a written request that the governmental agency, person, business, or association refrain from disclosing any personal information about the health care professional. Provides that if a governmental agency receives a written request from a health care professional, the governmental agency shall not publicly post or display publicly available content that includes any personal information of the health care professional. Exempts the personal information of the health care professional from the Freedom of Information Act. Provides that if a person, business, or association receives a written request from a health care professional, the person, business, or association shall refrain from publicly posting or displaying on the Internet publicly available content that includes the personal information of a health care professional. Provides that no person, business, or association shall solicit, sell, or trade any personal information of the health care professional with the intent to post an imminent or serious threat to the health and safety of the health care professional or the health care professional's immediate family. Allows a health care professional to bring an action against a governmental agency, person, business, or association, seeking injunctive or declaratory relief if a written request is violated. Provides that it is a Class 3 felony for any person to knowingly and publicly post on the Internet the personal information of a health care professional or the health care professional's immediate family if the person knows that publicly posting the personal information poses an imminent and serious threat to the health and safety of the health care professional or health care professional's immediate family, and the violation is a proximate cause of bodily injury or death of the health care professional or health care professional's immediate family member. Makes a conforming change in the Freedom of Information Act.

HB3171 - STAFFING RATIO NOTICE & WAIVER

Amends the Nursing Home Care Act. In provisions concerning monetary penalties for noncompliance with minimum staffing standards, provides that monetary penalties shall be established based on a formula that calculates on a quarterly basis (instead of a daily basis). Provides that the monetary penalty may not be waived, except where there is no more than a 10% deviation from the staffing requirements, in which case the facility shall not receive a penalty. Makes changes regarding the notice that a facility that has received a notice of violation for a violation of the minimum staffing requirements shall display. Effective immediately.

HB3233 - EMS RESPONSE TASK FORCE

House Committee Amendment No. 1 Provides that the Department of Public Health shall have the authority and responsibility to provide administrative support to the Emergency Medical Service Response Task Force. In provisions concerning membership of the Task Force, adds 3 members representing the Associated Fire Fighters of Illinois, appointed by the President of the Senate, and 3 members representing volunteer rural fire service, appointed by the Speaker of the House.

HB3327 - EARLY INTERVENTION PROGRAM

Amends the Hospital Licensing Act. Requires a hospital to provide written information, which may be provided electronically, on the Early Intervention program to any parent or legal guardian whose child is admitted to the neonatal intensive care department. Provides that with a parent or legal guardian, a hospital staff member familiar with the Early Intervention program shall initiate prior to discharge from the hospital written referrals to the Early Intervention program for all children admitted to the neonatal intensive care department who qualify for early intervention services. Amends the Department of Early Childhood Act. In provisions concerning the system of early intervention services to be administered by the Department of Early Childhood on and after July 1, 2026, requires the statewide system of coordinated, comprehensive, interagency, and interdisciplinary early intervention programs to include in its public awareness program, a special focus on the early identification of infants who automatically qualify for early intervention services, including, but not limited to, those who qualify on account of having a birth weight less than 1,000 grams.

HB3428 - LONG-TERM CARE JOINT TRAINING

Amends the Nursing Home Care Act and the Assisted Living and Shared Housing Act. Requires the Department of Public Health to hold semiannual joint training sessions for surveyors, nursing home providers, and assisted living establishment providers. Provides that the Department shall include the State long-term care ombudsman, or the State long-term care ombudsman's designee, and representatives of each nursing home provider association and assisted living provider association in the State in the planning process to create the topics and content of the joint training sessions as well as the coordination and presentations for the joint training sessions. Provides that, at least annually, a joint training session shall include, but not be limited to, regional citation patterns relating to complaints, standards, and outcomes in the nursing home and assisted living survey process. Requires the Department to develop standardized training for establishments to prevent common citations in the assisted living survey process.

HB3435 - HEALTH CARE VIOLENCE PREVENT

Amends the Health Care Violence Prevention Act. Makes changes to defined terms. In provisions concerning workplace safety, provides that a health care worker may not be discouraged from contacting law enforcement or the Department of Public Health regarding workplace violence, and a health care provider may not hold a policy that limits such contact. Adds additional requirements to the workplace violence prevention program, including reporting requirements and identifying the need for additional security and alarms, adequate exit routes, monitoring systems, barrier protections, lighting, entry procedures, and systems to identify and flag persons who have previously committed violent acts in the health care provider space. Sets forth provisions concerning violent incident investigations, and recordkeeping and reporting requirements for health care providers regarding violent incidents. Establishes penalties for failure to comply with the Act. Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Exempts from public disclosure workplace violence records maintained by health care providers as required under a specified provision of the Health Care Violence Prevention Act.

HB3453 - ACUTE CARE HOSPITAL CLOSURE

Amends the Hospital Licensing Act. Requires any hospital or health system licensed by the Act operating a general acute care hospital to, when considering closure or elimination of an inpatient psychiatric unit or a perinatal unit, provide public notice of the proposed closure or elimination no less than 120 days prior to the proposed date of closure and submit the notice to the specified authorities. Provides that, subject to the same notice requirements, a hospital or health system proposing closure must hold at least one public meeting within 60 days after notice is provided. Requires members of the county board in which the general acute care hospital resides to be invited to the meeting and given the opportunity to testify on the impact that elimination of service would have on the county and its other community health systems.

HB3512 - HOSPITAL WORKER STAFF & SAFETY

Amends the Hospital Licensing Act. Requires hospitals licensed under the Act to employ and schedule enough hospital workers to provide quality patient care and ensure patient safety. Establishes requirements concerning the reporting of staffing metrics for hospitals and the Department of Public Health. Sets forth provisions concerning competency validation credentials for each hospital worker hired; assignment despite objection forms and procedures; and an assignment despite objection resolution process. Provides that a hospital may not assign a certified nursing assistant or patient care technician to more than 7 patients at a time during a day or evening shift or more than 11 patients at a time during a night shift. Sets forth provisions concerning direct-care registered nurse-to-patient staffing ratios and deviations from the ratio; complaint procedures; the Department's duties concerning complaints; meal and rest periods; investigations for violating staffing requirements; penalties and violations; recordkeeping requirements of a hospital; and rulemaking by the Department.

HB3593 - FAIR PATIENT BILLING

Amends the Fair Patient Billing Act. Requires that a hospital's obligation to patients under the Act shall cover all health care services, including, but not limited to, on-site health care services provided by a non-hospital entity. Provides that, in the event the hospital outsources health care services to an individual or entity that is separate from the hospital within the hospital facility or otherwise on the hospital site, the hospital's obligations under the Act continue as though the hospital had provided the health care services. Requires a hospital to ensure that the individual or entity contracted to provide health care services agrees in writing to operate under the hospital's financial assistance policy, screening obligations, collections provisions, and all other provisions of the Act, and requires a hospital to ensure that a hospital agent or on-site provider of outsourced health care services complies with the Act. Amends the Hospital Uninsured Patient Discount Act to establish similar requirements for hospitals. Provides that a hospital shall include charges from the third-party individual or entity when calculating the charge, discount, or collectible amount applicable under the Act.

HB3674 - ANNUAL HOSPITAL REPORT

Amends the Illinois Health Facilities Planning Act. Provides that the State Board shall require each health care facility to submit an annual report of all capital expenditures (instead of capital expenditures in excess of $200,000). Provides that if a hospital reports zero capital expenditures, a section detailing the hospital's total purchasing budget that encompasses all goods and services purchased by the hospital in the preceding fiscal year must still be included in the report. Makes a conforming change.

HB3761 - HOSP & HOMELESSNESS SUPPORT

House Amendment 1

House Amendment 1 to HB 3761 refines the introduced bill by focusing on enhancing access to shelter and homelessness support services through better public information and coordination. The amendment shifts the bill’s emphasis toward improving how hospitals and healthcare providers connect individuals experiencing homelessness with appropriate services via a centralized online resource.

Key Provisions:

1. Website Resource Requirement

• The Office to Prevent and End Homelessness within the Department of Human Services (DHS) is required to maintain a publicly accessible webpage.

• This webpage must include detailed information on how hospitals and healthcare providers can connect individuals experiencing homelessness, or those in vulnerable housing situations, to:

• Shelters

• Homeless support services

• The information must be organized by continuum of care (CoC)—regional or local planning bodies that coordinate housing services for homeless individuals.

2. Required Information for Each CoC

The DHS must ensure the site includes for each continuum of care:

• Phone number

• Email address

• Physical address

• Primary agencies

• Any other relevant information needed to begin accessing services

3. Geolocation Support

• The site must include a tool or method to help hospitals or providers determine which CoC serves their physical location.

4. Voluntary Training

• DHS is required to offer voluntary training for hospitals and healthcare providers on how to effectively use the CoC information provided on the website.

5. Deadlines for Implementation

• The amendment sets deadline dates for when the DHS must:

• Publish the information

• Update it periodically to ensure accuracy and usability

Implications:

• For Counties and Local Governments:

• Counties that serve as part of a continuum of care will likely need to coordinate with DHS to provide up-to-date contact information and service details.

• This may lead to increased referrals from hospitals and greater awareness of county-level shelter and homelessness resources.

• For Hospitals and Health Providers:

• The amendment promotes easier access to housing support networks, potentially reducing discharge delays and improving patient outcomes for unhoused individuals.

• While participation in training is optional, hospitals may see increased expectations to use the site as part of discharge planning.

• Statewide Impact:

• Encourages standardization and transparency in how support services are accessed across Illinois.

• Builds a bridge between the healthcare system and homelessness services, addressing a known gap in care continuity for vulnerable populations.

Summary:

HB 3761 as amended requires the Department of Human Services to create and maintain a user-friendly, statewide online resource to help healthcare providers connect homeless or housing-vulnerable patients with local shelters and services through each continuum of care. It includes training support and mandates timely updates, reinforcing the infrastructure for coordinated care and potentially improving access to critical housing resources across Illinois.

HB3811 - PRIVATE PROFESSIONAL GUARDIANS

Amends the Hospital Licensing Act. Provides that, if a physician determines that an adult patient is so disabled as to be unable to consent to discharge or placement in a facility or a physician reasonably believes an adult patient is a person with a disability in need of a guardian in accordance with the Probate Act of 1975 and there is no family, surrogate decision maker, agent under a power of attorney, trustee, or other close friend who is ready willing and able to assist that adult patient, then the hospital shall notify the Office of State Guardian and the public guardian of the county where the patient resides. Amends the Nursing Home Care Act. Requires a facility to notify the Office of State Guardian and the public guardian in the county where the patient resides before executing a contract in specified circumstances where the patient has diminished capacity. Amends the Probate Act of 1975. Includes private professional guardians as individuals who may act as guardians. Establishes standards for private professional guardians before appointment. Requires a private professional guardian who serves as guardian for 15 or more persons with disabilities to be certified as a National Master Guardian by the Center for Guardianship Certification and imposes other requirements, including background checks. Sets forth provisions concerning private professional guardians as successor guardians and the removal of private professional guardians who fail to comply with the specified requirements.

HB4039 - HOPE ACT

HB 4039 proposes the Holistic Overdose Prevention and Equity Act, a comprehensive public health initiative aimed at reducing opioid-related deaths and addressing substance use disorders through a harm reduction framework. The bill establishes new governance structures, expands access to life-saving interventions, and limits certain punitive approaches, while mandating collaboration across state and local systems.

Key Provisions and Impacts on Local Government:

1. Creation of the Harm Reduction Program Board:

• A new board will be established to oversee harm reduction strategies, advise on policy implementation, and ensure stakeholder input.

• This board structure emphasizes coordinated state-level oversight and community representation.

2. Grants to Harm Reduction Providers:

• The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) is required to issue grants to harm reduction organizations, supporting their delivery of services like syringe exchanges, education, and outreach.

• Counties may benefit from increased funding for local public health efforts or partner with grantees.

3. Chief Harm Reduction Officer:

• A new position within IDPH will coordinate statewide harm reduction policies and programs.

4. Pilot Program – Place-Based Harm Reduction:

• The bill introduces a pilot program that focuses resources on high-need geographic areas using tailored interventions.

• Counties selected for the pilot may receive additional resources and attention from the state.

5. Local Government Training & Education:

• Requires ongoing training for local government personnel to ensure alignment with harm reduction principles and emerging best practices.

6. Naloxone Access in Prisons and Jails:

• Mandates that naloxone (an opioid overdose reversal medication) be made readily available to both staff and individuals incarcerated in correctional facilities.

• Counties operating jails will need to ensure compliance, potentially requiring policy updates and procurement of medication.

7. Medication Access & Testing:

• Expands access to medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD) and requires availability of fentanyl testing tools in relevant settings.

8. Restrictions on Abstinence-Only Housing Requirements:

• Prohibits blanket abstinence or sobriety requirements in housing unless specific conditions are met.

• Could impact county housing programs or partnerships with housing providers.

9. Limitations on Home Rule Authority:

• Explicitly restricts home rule powers in areas covered by the Act, creating uniform standards across jurisdictions.

10. Conforming Statutory Changes:

• Amends multiple Illinois laws, including those governing jails, corrections, hospitals, and local government authority, to align with the provisions of the Act.

HB 4039 reflects a significant shift toward evidence-based, compassionate responses to the opioid crisis, with meaningful implications for county governments, public health departments, law enforcement, and housing agencies. It expands local responsibilities in harm reduction while also providing access to funding, training, and statewide coordination. Counties should prepare for policy updates, training obligations, and new operational practices—especially in corrections and housing—should the bill become law.

SB0021 - HOSPITAL STAFFING LEVELS

Amends the Hospital Licensing Act. Defines "hospital worker" as any person who receives an hourly wage, directly or indirectly via a subcontractor, from a hospital licensed under the Act. In provisions concerning limitations on mandated overtime and requiring rest periods for nurses, replaces "nurse" with "hospital worker". Requires additional hospital staffing information to be reported to the Department of Public Health, including any and all staffing matrices, staffing metrics, and underlying materials used to determine the metrics. Provides that the Department shall produce an annual report based on staffing disclosures and make recommendations for minimum staffing standards for hospital workers in each hospital unit. Requires hospitals to conduct a competency validation for each hospital worker hired, as a condition of employment, within the first month of employment and at no cost to the new hire. Provides that each hospital worker's competency validation must be submitted to the Department within 2 weeks after the hospital worker's start date. Establishes ongoing verification requirements for each hospital worker, and requires hospitals to submit a list of all competent employees currently employed at the end of each calendar year. Requires the Department to maintain, and make available to the public, a registry of all competent employees, including the hospital worker's name, address, contact information, and current employer. Provides that hospital employers that fail to comply with the competency validations requirements shall receive a fine equal to 0.1% of annual revenue reported during the most recently completed fiscal year each day until the hospital complies. Sets forth provisions concerning a hospital's requirements regarding assignment despite objection forms, a resolution process under the Department for assignment despite objection for certain hospital workers, and a fine for hospitals that fail to honor the assignment despite objection process. Makes other changes.

SB0066 - HEALTH CARE AVAILABILITY

Creates the Health Care Availability and Access Board Act. Establishes the Health Care Availability and Access Board to protect State residents, State and local governments, commercial health plans, health care providers, pharmacies licensed in the State, and other stakeholders within the health care system from the high costs of prescription drug products. Contains provisions concerning Board membership and terms; staff for the Board; Board meetings; circumstances under which Board members must recuse themselves; and other matters. Provides that the Board shall perform the following actions in open session: (i) deliberations on whether to subject a prescription drug product to a cost review; and (ii) any vote on whether to impose an upper payment limit on purchases, payments, and payor reimbursements of prescription drug products in the State. Permits the Board to adopt rules to implement the Act and to enter into a contract with a qualified, independent third party for any service necessary to carry out the powers and duties of the Board. Creates the Health Care Availability and Access Stakeholder Council to provide stakeholder input to assist the Board in making decisions as required by the Act. Contains provisions concerning Council membership, member terms, and other matters. Provides that the Board shall adopt the federal Medicare Maximum Fair Price as the upper payment limit for a prescription drug product intended for use by individuals in the State. Prohibits the Board from creating an upper payment limit that is different from the Medicare Maximum Fair Price for the prescription drug product that has a Medicare Maximum Fair Price. Requires the Board to implement an upper payment limit that is the same as the Medicare Maximum Fair Price no sooner than the Medicare implementation date. Provides that Medicare Part C and D plans are not required to reimburse at the upper payment limit. Provides that the Attorney General may enforce the Act and may pursue any available remedy under State law when enforcing the Act. Effective 180 days after becoming law.

SB0165 - ULTRASOUND OPPORTUNITY ACT

Creates the Ultrasound Opportunity Act. Sets forth legislative findings and definitions. Provides that at any facility where abortions are performed, the physician who is to perform the abortion, the referring physician, or another qualified person working in conjunction with either physician shall offer any woman seeking an abortion after 8 weeks of gestation an opportunity to receive and view an active ultrasound of her unborn child by someone qualified to perform ultrasounds at the facility, or at a facility listed in a listing of local ultrasound providers provided by the facility, prior to the woman having any part of an abortion performed or induced and prior to the administration of any anesthesia or medication in preparation for the abortion. Provides that the requirements of the Act shall not apply when, in the medical judgment of the physician performing or inducing the abortion, there exists a medical emergency. Contains a severability provision. Effective immediately.

SB0230 - INS-NONPARTICIPATING PROVIDERS

Amends the Illinois Insurance Code. In a provision concerning services provided by nonparticipating providers, provides that "health care facility" in the context of non-emergency services, includes a facility or office in which a patient receives reproductive health care, as defined in the Reproductive Health Act.

SB0232 - HOSPITAL PRICE TRANSPARENCY

Creates the Hospital Price Transparency Act. Provides that a hospital shall publish specified information regarding standard charges on its publicly accessible Internet website and provide hard copies upon request. Requires a hospital to maintain a list of all standard charges for all hospital items or services in accordance with the Act and ensure that the list is always available to the public, including publishing the list electronically in the specified manner. Provides that the list shall include a description of each hospital item or service provided by the hospital; specified charges for each individual hospital item or service when provided in either an inpatient setting or an outpatient department setting, as applicable; and a code used by the hospital for the purpose of accounting or billing for the hospital item or service, including the Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) code, the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS) code, the Diagnosis Related Group (DRG) code, the National Drug Code (NDC), or other common identifiers. Requires a hospital to maintain and make publicly available a list of the standard charges for each of at least 300 shoppable services provided by the hospital with charges specific to that individual hospital location, except as specified in the Act. Sets forth provisions concerning duties of hospitals and the Department of Public Health relating to lists of all standard and shoppable charges; reporting requirements for hospitals; submission of complaints for violations of the Act; plans of correction for violations of the Act; sanctions and penalties; disclosure of facility fees; reporting requirements for the Department; and restrictions on hospitals initiating or pursuing a collection action if they are in violation of the Act. Effective July 1, 2026.

SB0259 - HOSPITAL STAFFING PLANS ACT

Creates the Hospital Staffing Plans Act. Provides that for each hospital there shall be established a hospital professional and technical staffing committee. Sets forth requirements and makeup of committee members and cochairs. Directs the professional and technical staffing committee to develop a written hospital-wide professional and technical staffing plan. Sets forth committee rules of operation. Requires the plan to be consistent with the approved nurse staffing plan for the hospital and takes into account the hospital service staffing plan for the hospital. Provides that if the committee does not adopt a staffing plan, or adopts only part of a plan, then either cochair may invoke an additional 60 day period to continue to develop the plan. Sets forth opportunities to extend the discussion, amendment, or adoption timeframe of the staffing plan. Provides that the committee must meet 3 times per year and additionally at the call of either cochair. Sets forth open meeting and recordkeeping requirements. Requires the hospital to submit the staffing plan to the Department of Public Health. Provides for a hospital service staffing plan in the same manner and methods as the professional and technical staffing committee. Provides that hospitals may combine 2 or more staffing committees into one committee in particular circumstances. Provides for a nurse staffing committee as the same manner and methods of the professional and technical staffing committee. Provides that hospitals may combine 2 or more staffing committees into one committee in particular circumstances. Sets forth the roles and responsibilities of a nurse in a hospital setting. Sets forth arbitration and complaint resolution. Sets forth required periodic reviews. Provides for penalties for violations of the Act. Provides that the Department of Labor may grant a variance to a written hospital-wide staffing plan. Provides for emergency staffing variances. Establishes the Nurse Staffing Advisory Board within the Department of Public Health. Effective immediately.

SB0593 - HEALTH-TECH

Senate Amendment 1

Senate Floor Amendment 1 to SB 593 amends a shell bill to establish the Health Care Workforce Commission Act. The amendment focuses on creating a structured body to address health care workforce issues in Illinois.

Here are the key elements of the amendment:

1. Creation of the Health Care Workforce Commission:

The amendment creates a new commission housed within the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. This commission is tasked with studying and making recommendations on challenges facing the state’s health care workforce.

2. Commission Structure and Administration:

The amendment outlines details regarding:

• Membership: Likely to include representatives from health care sectors, educational institutions, government agencies, and possibly labor or trade organizations (though specifics would be detailed in the full text).

• Terms: Specifies how long members will serve.

• Meetings: Establishes how frequently the commission will meet.

• Compensation: Provides information on whether and how commission members are compensated.

• Administrative Support: The Department will provide staffing and logistical support to the commission.

3. Duties and Responsibilities:

The commission is charged with making policy and strategic recommendations aimed at strengthening, growing, and supporting the healthcare workforce in Illinois. This may include addressing issues like worker shortages, training needs, workforce diversity, regional disparities, and retention strategies.

4. Reporting Requirements:

The commission will be required to produce reports—likely on a regular basis—to inform the General Assembly, the Governor, or other relevant stakeholders of its findings and policy recommendations.

Summary:

Senate Amendment 1 to SB 593 proposes the creation of a new state-level Health Care Workforce Commission. The goal is to bring stakeholders together to study the ongoing challenges in the health care labor market and offer formal recommendations to policymakers. The amendment provides the administrative framework for the commission and ensures ongoing oversight through reporting. This change represents a proactive approach to addressing workforce shortages and structural issues in Illinois’s health care system.

Senate Amendment 2

Senate Amendment 2 to SB 593 places the Health Care Workforce Commission within the Department of Public Health rather than the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. It also removes the Director of Labor as a member of the Commission. 

SB1263 - HEALTH FACILITY-OUTDOOR ACCESS

Amends the Nursing Home Care Act and the Specialized Mental Health Rehabilitation Act of 2013. Provides that residents of nursing home facilities have the right to outdoor access. Provides that residents of nursing home facilities and consumers served by mental health rehabilitation facilities shall be free to enter and leave the facilities as they choose. Provides that a facility may suspend this right only if the resident's or consumer's physician examines the resident or consumer and determines that leaving the facility would pose a danger to other residents or consumers or an immediate and substantial danger to the resident's or consumer's safety and well-being, which shall be explained to the resident or consumer and documented in the resident's or consumer's medical chart.

SB1274 - VOUCHER-TAXI & CAR-SHARE

Senate Amendment 3

Senate Floor Amendment 3 to SB 1274 significantly modifies the original bill by focusing on transportation support for sexual assault survivors through the Sexual Assault Survivors Emergency Treatment Act.

Key Provisions Introduced by the Amendment:

1. New Voucher Use – Transportation Services

• Beginning January 1, 2026, a sexual assault services voucher may be used to cover transportation costs by taxi or rideshare (e.g., Uber, Lyft).

• This applies after services have been provided to a survivor following a sexual assault.

• Eligible destinations for transportation:

• The hospital where the survivor initially presented

• The survivor’s residence

• A survivor services shelter

2. Consent Requirement

• The hospital may arrange rideshare or taxi services on behalf of the survivor only if the survivor provides written consent.

• This provision is intended to ensure respect for the survivor’s autonomy and privacy in transportation planning.

Purpose and Impact:

• Support for Survivors:

• Eases access to safe, immediate transportation following treatment or evidence collection, which can be a barrier, especially for those without personal transportation or support.

• Promotes dignified and secure transitions from hospital care to safe spaces.

• Role of Hospitals:

• Encourages hospitals to become more proactive in arranging and facilitating transportation, but requires written consent to protect survivor rights.

• May prompt some hospitals to develop procedures or partnerships with rideshare providers.

• Implementation Timeline:

• The amendment sets a clear start date of January 1, 2026, allowing time for administrative preparation, provider awareness, and potential budget planning.

Summary:

SB 1274 (as amended by SFA 3) expands the use of sexual assault services vouchers to cover transportation costs for survivors using taxi or rideshare services. Hospitals may coordinate these rides with written survivor consent. This addition enhances the continuum of care for survivors by addressing a key logistical challenge and providing a mechanism for safe post-treatment transportation.

SB1312 - HEALTH FACILITY-NURSING HOME

Amends the Illinois Health Facilities Planning Act. Provides that general review criteria shall include a requirement that nursing homes operated by a county, regardless of whether the nursing homes operated by a county are skilled and intermediate long-term care facilities licensed under the Nursing Home Care Act, provide a Safety Net Impact Statement. Provides that a Safety Net Impact Statement shall also be filed with an application to change ownership of a nursing home operated by a county. Includes nursing homes operated by a county in a list of safety net service providers. Provides that nursing homes operated by a county shall also provide the number of the facility's Medicaid and Medicare certified beds for the 3 fiscal years prior to the application. The State Board Staff Report shall also include a statement of findings about an application's safety net impact under specified circumstances, and that the State Board Staff's assessment shall be considered in determining whether the project fulfills the public interest requirements. Amends the County Homes Division of the Counties Code. Removes a requirement that two-thirds of the county board is required sell, dispose of, or lease for any term, any part of the home properties, and requires a referendum before selling any home (rather than requiring a referendum only for homes that were erected after referendum approval by the voters of the county). Provides referendum language for the selling, disposition of, or lease of a home. Removes language providing that, if a county nursing home was erected after referendum approval by the voters of the county, the county nursing home may be leased upon the vote of a 3/5 majority of all the members of the board.

SB1416 - $IDPH-LOCAL HEALTH PROT GRANT

Appropriates $10,000,000 from the General Revenue Fund to the Department of Public Health for local health protection grants for health protection programs. Effective July 1, 2025.

SB1420 - LOCAL HEALTH DEPT-RMSF

The bill amends the Department of Public Health Powers and Duties Law of the Civil Administrative Code of Illinois to provide that the Department of Public Health (IDPH) shall adopt rules requiring a local health department to make public announcements for the purpose of informing the general public when a positive case of Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever is detected within a county or area under the local health department's jurisdiction. In May 2024, the Champaign-Urbana Public Health District confirmed a case of RMSF in Champaign County. The sponsor of the bill represents Champaign County in the State Senate. In Illinois, local public health departments are mandated to report certain infectious diseases to the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH). This reporting is primarily conducted through the Illinois National Electronic Disease Surveillance System (I-NEDSS). The specific diseases and conditions that must be reported, along with the required time frames, are detailed in the Control of Communicable Disease Code. 

SB1435 - HOSPITAL EMPLOYEE-PANIC BUTTON

Amends the University of Illinois Hospital Act and Hospital Licensing Act. Provides that a hospital shall ensure that all employees of the hospital have a panic button attached to their staff identification card. Effective July 1, 2025.

SB1653 - MEDICAID-SAFETY-NET HOSPITALS

Amends the Hospital Provider Funding Article of the Illinois Public Aid Code. In a provision requiring the Department of Healthcare and Family Services to create a pool of funding of at least $50,000,000 annually to be disbursed among safety-net hospitals that maintain perinatal designation from the Department of Public Health, provides that no safety-net hospital eligible for funds shall receive less than $5,000,000 annually.

SB1814 - DPH-AMNIOTIC FLUID EMBOLISM

This legislation requires the Illinois Department of Public Health to educate healthcare providers on the signs, symptoms, and management of amniotic fluid embolism and to make related information available on its website. It also mandates that local health departments issue public announcements when a case of Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever is detected in their area. The Act takes effect immediately.

SB2175 - PERS CD-VA APPOINTMENTS

SB2182 - FACILITY FEE TRANSPARENCY

Creates the Facility Fee Transparency and Prevention Act. Prohibits a health care facility or health care provider from charging or collecting a facility fee for preventive services provided to a patient, regardless of whether the patient's insurance covers the preventive service. Provides that, for any health care service other than preventive services, a health care facility may not charge or collect a facility fee not covered by the patient's insurance unless the patient is provided with written notice, as specified, of the facility fee 7 days prior to the scheduled service, or as soon as possible for unscheduled or emergency services. Requires health care facilities or health care providers to notify patients in writing, as specified, of any new business relationship with, affiliation with, or acquisition by a hospital or health system. Provides that any health care facility or health care provider that violates the Act shall be subject to a civil penalty of up to $2,500 per violation, and all funds collected under the Act shall be deposited into the Facility Fee Reimbursement Fund. Provides that the Facility Fee Reimbursement Fund is created to reimburse patients who have provided sufficient evidence to the Department of Public Health that they were charged a facility fee not in accordance with the Act and to cover any administrative costs related to processing reimbursements. Grants the Department of Public Health authority to adopt rules to implement and enforce the Act. Amends the State Finance Act to make a conforming change. Effective January 1, 2026.

SB2259 - HEALTH CARE GENERATIVE AI USE

Amends the Medical Practice Act of 1987. Defines terms. Provides that a health facility, clinic, physician's office, or office of a group practice that uses generative artificial intelligence to generate written or verbal patient communications pertaining to patient clinical information shall ensure that the communications meet certain criteria. Provides that a communication that is generated by generative artificial intelligence and read and reviewed by a human licensed or certified health care provider is not subject to the amendatory provisions. Provides that a violation of the amendatory provisions by a licensed health facility or a licensed clinic is subject to penalties as implemented by the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation by rule. Provides that a violation of the amendatory provisions by a physician is subject to penalties as determined by the Illinois State Medical Board.

SB2437 - MEDICAID-MATERNAL HLTH-DOULAS

Amends the Medical Assistance Article of the Illinois Public Aid Code. Requires hospitals and birthing centers to adopt and maintain written policies and procedures authorizing a patient enrolled in the medical assistance program to select an Illinois Medicaid certified and enrolled doula of the patient's choice to accompany the patient within the facility's premises for the purposes of providing support before, during, and after labor and childbirth, and during the patient's entire postpartum stay. Provides that the doula shall be considered part of the patient's care team and shall not be counted as a support person or against any guest quota. Requires hospitals and birthing centers to provide a written copy of their policies and procedures to maternity patients, the facilities' maternity health care providers, and any other person at the patient's request. Requires publication of the written policies on each facility's website. Contains provisions concerning hospital and birthing center liaisons and doulas certification acknowledgment requirements. Permits the Department of Healthcare and Family Services and the Department of Public Health to establish standing recommendations to meet Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services requirements and ensure access to preventive services, including Medicaid-covered maternal and reproductive health supports and services.

SB2500 - MOBILE MENTAL HEALTH PROVIDERS