SPRINGFIELD – Legislation championed by State Senator Laura Fine to safeguard insurance coverage for topical eye medications has been signed into law, ensuring patients can maintain uninterrupted access to the treatments they need to protect their vision.
“For many individuals living with chronic eye conditions, missing even a short period of treatment can have serious consequences,” said Fine (D‑Glenview). “This law helps ensure patients have reliable access to prescribed medications so they can focus on their health rather than insurance obstacles.”
Topical eye medications — including prescription eye drops used to treat glaucoma and other serious eye diseases — are essential to preventing vision deterioration and blindness. Yet coverage limitations and restrictive refill policies can leave patients without the medications they rely on to manage their conditions safely and effectively.
Fine’s law, known as the Topical Eye Medication Prescription Act, requires accident and health insurance policies for public employees and individuals receiving public aid to cover prescribed topical eye medications. The measure strengthens continuity of care and reduces treatment disruptions that could jeopardize a patient’s long‑term eye health.
“No one should risk losing their sight because they can’t access a medication their doctor has determined they need,” Fine said. “By reinforcing coverage protections, this law helps patients stay on track with treatment and supports better health outcomes for individuals across Illinois.”
Senate Bill 2921 was signed into law Friday and takes effect Jan. 1, 2028.
