Illinois Bill Would Create State Grant Program To Fund Abortion Care For Uninsured Residents

SPRINGFIELD — Illinois lawmakers are considering House Bill 5408, which would create a state grant program to help uninsured and underinsured residents pay for abortion care by using funds collected under Affordable Care Act insurance plans that already include abortion coverage beyond cases of rape, incest, or when the mother’s life is at risk. Backed by Gov. JB Pritzker’s administration, the measure would require insurers to report and transfer certain funds into a new state Abortion Access Fund, which would be used by the Illinois Department of Public Health to provide grants to abortion providers serving patients in need. Supporters say the proposal would expand access and clarify how the funds are used, while opponents argue it could conflict with federal guidance and create legal and operational uncertainty.