SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — As the calendar flips to 2025, a new chapter begins in state regulations. Over 290 new state laws will take effect when the clock strikes midnight. Some of the changes will improve access to healthcare and help struggling consumers.
Many Illinoisans who struggle with asthma and other lung diseases currently pay between $180 to $300 per month for rescue and controller inhalers. A new state law will cap the monthly cost of prescription inhalers at $25 for people with health insurance. The law also bans health insurance companies from denying or limiting coverage for inhalers starting January 1, 2026.
“Last year, 5,541 children alone had to go to the ER for asthma attacks, which cost on average per visit to the ER $1,548, which was over $8 million last year,” said Rep. Laura Faver Dias (D-Grayslake). “When people have access to affordable medication, trips to the ER are reduced.”
Another law will prohibit consumer reporting agencies from including medical debt in credit reports. Sponsors said this change will ensure people are no longer unfairly penalized for needing medical care or struggling to pay healthcare costs…