Feigenholtz-Sponsored Measure to Protect Early Intervention Services Becomes Law

CHICAGO, IL – Continuing her efforts to ensure all Illinoisans have access to health care, legislation sponsored by state Rep. Sara Feigenholtz (D-Chicago) increasing insurance coverage for early intervention services was recently signed into law.

“It has been proven that when children are given the early intervention services they need, their chances of succeeding in school and later in life increases exponentially,” Feigenholtz said. “That is why I worked with social service and educational professionals to remove roadblocks that were preventing children from receiving these services. This measure takes important steps to help the children of Illinois.”

Early Intervention (EI) services are given to children from birth to three years old who have exhibited developmental delays in growing and learning. Examples of EI services include: developmental evaluations and assessments, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech/language therapy, nutrition services, psychological services, and social work services.

Senate Bill 626 prevents insurance companies from discriminating against families who need these early intervention services. Under this new law, insurance companies cannot use EI services as a reason for families to lose insurance benefits or to be denied coverage. Additionally, EI services cannot be the basis for increasing the insurance premium on the child or family.

“Early intervention services are invaluable to families across the state,” Feigenholtz said. “This is the right thing to do and will help countless children and families. I will continue fighting for reforms to put the health and well-being of our children first.”

For more information please contact Feigenholtz’s constituent services office at (773) 296-4141 or sara@staterepsara.com.