SPRINGFIELD – In an effort to advocate for reproductive health, State Senator Laura Ellman supported a new measure that ensures access to reproductive health care for Illinois residents and prevents insurers from charging higher out-of-pocket costs to residents seeking out-of-network health care services.

"There are many circumstances in which someone would decide to seek an out-of-network provider for potentially lifesaving reproductive health care,” said Ellman (D- Naperville). “Illinois residents seeking health care services should not be financially penalized if they are forced to seek an out-of-network provider due the moral objections of their usual health care provider.”

In addition to financial protections when seeking out-of-network health care due the moral objections of their usual health care provider, House Bill 4664 protects access to reproductive health care services and offers legal protections for patients and health care providers who seek reproductive health care that is lawful in Illinois.

Under current law, Illinois residents have the right to make their own decisions about their reproductive health care. Additionally, health care providers are permitted to implement reproductive health care procedures until the point of viability and after if necessary for the health of the patient.

“Adequate financial and legal protections for both patients and health care workers is indispensable in this day and age,” said Ellman. “These protections will ensure the reproductive health of current and future Illinois residents.”

The measure is similar to a California law that protects patients and health care providers from out-of-state laws suggesting criminal and civil liability for assisting and seeking reproductive health care procedures that are illegal in other states.

House Bill 4664 passed the Illinois Senate and awaits further consideration in the Illinois House.

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