Social workers to see expanded student loan relief under new Gillespie law

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS – A measure to assist social workers with paying off their degrees, introduced by State Senator Ann Gillespie, was signed into law on Friday.

“Incentivizing students of social work to start their careers in Illinois will help our local governments recruit the qualified professionals they need, while mitigating the student debt crisis,” said Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights).

Senate Bill 3761 expands the School Social Work Shortage Loan Repayment Program to include social workers employed by an Illinois municipality. Currently, the program offers up to $6,500 in student loan assistance to borrowers who have been employed at a school for at least one year.

The new law builds on previous laws passed by Senator Gillespie and gives priority to individuals underrepresented in the social work field.

Senate Bills 3761 was signed into law on Friday and is effective immediately.

New Gillespie law to improve staffing and care at nursing homes

CHICAGO – To improve conditions at nursing homes across Illinois, a new law to reform how the state assesses and reimburses nursing facilities, and link funding to staffing levels and quality of care, championed by State Senator Ann Gillespie, was signed into law on Tuesday.

“Despite years of increasing funding for staffing, many of Illinois’ long-term care facilities willingly remain understaffed,” said Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights). “Tying funding to adequate staffing and quality of care will bring an enhanced level of accountability and improve care given to residents.”

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New Gillespie law expands Medicaid services, cuts red tape for re-enrollment

SPRINGFIELD – Those enrolled in Medicaid will see more continuous coverage and expanded services thanks to a new law spearheaded by State Senator Ann Gillespie that was signed into law on Friday.

“Working families need stability more than ever, especially when it comes to health care coverage,” said Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights). “Removing the bureaucratic burdens these families face will ensure they remain covered once enrolled.”

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Gillespie ends surprise medical bills under new law

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS – Legislation to end surprise medical bills, sponsored by State Senator Ann Gillespie, was signed into law on Thursday.

“It’s shameful that someone receiving medical care would experience financial hardship as a result of surprise medical billing,” said Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights). “This new law will provide even more protection for consumers from exorbitant out-of-pocket healthcare costs, especially at a time when many families are struggling to pay other household bills.”

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