SPRINGFIELD – Patients can expect improved transparency about their health insurance plans in the new year under a law championed by State Senator Laura Fine that goes into effect Jan. 1.

“Access to critical information like changes to health care plans can make a significant difference for families’ financial planning,” said Fine (D-Glenview). “This new law ensures patients are informed of state laws that could affect their benefits.”

Currently, health insurance providers must give enrollees and potential enrollees a list of in-network providers and a description of the terms of their plan’s coverage each year.

SPRINGFIELD – Working mothers who pump breastmilk for their infants deserve proper workplace accommodations. Come Jan. 1, a new law led by State Senator Laura Fine will require employers to provide paid break time for pumping breastmilk.

“Working women often lack proper maternity resources, leaving them unsupported upon returning to work. This law empowers moms to balance their professional responsibilities while caring for their infants,” said Fine (D-Glenview).

Under the new law, employees’ time for pumping breastmilk has to be paid and employees cannot be required to use their own paid leave during these breaks.

SPRINGFIELD – To protect infants from exposure to toxic heavy metals, State Senator Laura Fine spearheaded a new law requiring testing of baby food products for these toxins on Jan. 1.

“Parents should never have to worry that the food they give their children could harm their health,” said Fine. “By establishing mandatory testing and transparency between manufacturers and consumers, this law gives parents peace of mind about the contents of the baby food they’re purchasing.”

Under Fine’s law, manufacturers must test samples of their baby food products for toxic elements – such as arsenic, cadmium, lead and mercury – every month and disclose this information directly on the product’s website.

SPRINGFIELD – Illinois eliminated unnecessary barriers to health care by banning prior authorization for outpatient mental health services on Jan. 1, thanks to State Senator Laura Fine.

“Like physical health care, mental health care is a critical component to overall well-being and it is time we ensure everyone has access to the treatment they need,” said Fine (D-Glenview). “This new law breaks down unnecessary barriers to mental health care services by making it more affordable and accessible for all Illinoisans.”

The Healthcare Protection Act, signed into law in July 2024, made health care more accessible and affordable for Illinoisans. The law banned step therapy requirements, prohibited prior authorization for inpatient mental health care at hospitals, banned junk insurance plans, and ended unchecked rate increases for large group insurance companies.