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By Dave Dahl
SPRINGFIELD – A Legislative Black Caucus priority now awaits the governor’s action – the “healthcare pillar,” which, supporters say, will make the healthcare system fairer to people of color.
“We’re still in very rough financial shape right now, and there are some very good things in this bill,” said State Sen. Steve McClure (R-Springfield), “but, unfortunately, I would urge a No vote, because we can’t afford it.”
“I just want to say we cannot not afford it,” responded State Sen. Jacqueline Collins (D-Chicago). How do you put a price tag on somebody’s life?”
The “healthcare pillar,” among other things, puts a sixty-day moratorium on closing hospitals and provides better access to doulas and other prenatal services.
HB 158 has passed the Senate, 41-16, and awaits the governor’s action.
Dave Dahl can be reached at [email protected]