Holmes seeks mental health care coverage for those who have suffered miscarriage or stillbirth

SPRINGFIELD - State Senator Linda Holmes advanced a measure through the Senate Insurance Committee on Tuesday that would require insurers to cover treatment for the mental and emotional effects for individuals who have experienced a miscarriage or stillbirth.

"For most expectant parents, pregnancy means happy preparations to welcome a healthy infant to their new family," said Holmes (D-Aurora). "The shock and grief of an unexpected pregnancy loss can be overwhelming - it may trigger anxiety, stress and depression, and contribute to substance abuse."

The Illinois Insurance Code currently requires coverage for mental, emotional, nervous or substance use treatments as they are under the federal Affordable Care Act. House Bill 5282 will explicitly add coverage for miscarriage or stillbirth in addition to the benefits already required by federal law.

"We help pregnant individuals through delivery, postpartum and neonatal care in more typical circumstances, and we must ensure those who experience the trauma of miscarriage or stillbirth can access care to assist in their recovery," Holmes said.

House Bill 5282 moves to the full Senate for further consideration.