McLean County Times

Illinois state Sen. Sue Rezin (R-Morris) recently lamented the failure of a bill she argues would have meant greater protections for individuals seeking health insurance coverage with pre-existing conditions.

By a narrow 27-23 vote, Senate Bill 2026 failed to garner the three-fifths majority support needed to override Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s veto.  

“To say I am disappointed in the outcome of the vote would be an understatement,” Rezin said in a press release. “For far too long, those with pre-existing conditions have been on defense in a health care battle that has been playing out politically. We had the chance to give those individuals the peace of mind they deserve, but instead, they will continue to worry about their health care coverage.”

Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker

The bill marked the first one to be vetoed by Pritzker last summer, which occurred after the legislation had unanimously passed the senate. Pritzker cited the need for greater flexibility on such matters as part of the reason for his decision.

“Why would we leave this decision up to the second floor when we have the ability to ensure that those with pre-existing conditions get the coverage they deserve and desperately need," Rezin had argued from the floor. "Applying for these waivers could have a detrimental effect on people with pre-existing conditions, causing them to be denied coverage, be charged higher premiums or, worst-case scenario, lose access to health care services.”