Macomb, IL – The Illinois Public Health Director is touring the state to boost the governor's new health care proposals. Dr. Eric Whitaker says Illinois Covered programs would provide what he calls affordable coverage for couples or single adults who can not pay what current health insurance costs. He says broadening the pool of those covered would help cut costs. He also sees the plan as an economic development tool; something that would help attract businesses to the state. The plan would let dependent adults remain on their parents' plan until age 29. It could provide coverage for small business persons who cannot now afford insurance. In addition, he says it would give full coverage through the state to individuals making less than $10,300 or couples making less than $13,700. He estimated the cost of the health insurance at between $2 billion and $3 billion yearly, which he says could be paid for through the proposed gross receipts tax. He says the expected $6 billion could cover both health care and more money for education.
Health Insurance Proposal Explained
