DOWNERS GROVE – To help communities get vaccinated, a measure sponsored by State Senator Ann Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights) to increase the Medicaid reimbursement rates for immunizations and expand coverage was signed into law today.

“As communities prepare for a safe reopening this summer, making sure everyone is vaccinated is critical,” Gillespie said. “This measure ensures that families who use Medicaid have the same access to vaccines.”

The new law increases the Medicaid reimbursement rates for immunizations for children under 21, as well as for dental services and mental health, marriage and family counseling.

Read more: Gillespie expands Medicaid coverage, increases access to vaccines

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Ann Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights) released the following statement after the Illinois Senate voted to send the Fiscal Year 2022 budget to the governor:

“This is a responsible budget that prioritizes an equitable recovery for small businesses and working families.

“It uses federal dollars to fund over $570 million in economic recovery initiatives. Combined with state resources, our small business community will have opportunities to build back better.

“This budget also invests in working families by funding $100 million in affordable housing initiatives and steady funding for education at all levels.”

SPRINGFIELD – In an effort to keep communities safe from gun violence, State Senator Ann Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights) passed legislation in the Illinois Senate that would strengthen the Firearms Restraining Order Act on Monday.

“Families must have a course of action to protect themselves when a household member shouldn’t have a gun,” Gillespie said. “This measure gives our partners in law enforcement the tools they need to intervene before a tragedy can occur.”

Read more: Gillespie passes tougher “red flag” laws to curb gun violence

SPRINGFIELD – To expand access to health care coverage, State Senator Ann Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights) passed a Medicaid reform package in the Illinois Senate on Monday that adds coverage for a variety of services and provides more care to older Illinoisans.

“Expanding Medicaid coverage will result in better health outcomes for the most vulnerable,” Gillespie said. “This measure adds essential care options to the Medicaid program and will ensure that everyone has access to quality care.”

Read more: Gillespie’s plan to expand Medicaid heads to governor