NW Illinois News

State Sen. Brian Stewart (R-Freeport) leaves no doubt about where he stands on House Bill 4259.

“I strongly oppose this proposal,” Stewart posted on Facebook of the measure that would require unvaccinated individuals to pay for their COVID-19 care costs. “A legislative and legal analysis shows that the language introduced would conflict with pre-existing federal law. Even if this idea were to somehow pass the Illinois General Assembly, it would likely be challenged and struck down in court. The federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has recently issued guidance on this topic, stating in part, “Plans and issuers may not discriminate in eligibility for benefits or coverage based on whether or not an individual obtains a COVID-19 vaccination.”

Stewart also sees the bill as being largely against the will of the people.

"My office has been receiving a number of calls and e-mails about a recently-introduced proposal that would require non-vaccinated individuals who contract COVID-19 to pay for their own healthcare expenses regardless of their insurance coverage,” he posted. “The lawmaker who originally introduced this proposal has currently tabled his legislation, but my office will keep a close eye on the topic during the upcoming legislative session, and will do what it takes to ensure all Illinoisans continue to receive the healthcare coverage they deserve regardless of their vaccination status.”

The bill was introduced by state Rep. Jonathan Carroll (D-Northbrook), who argues it will serve as an incentive to residents to get vaccinated while slowing the overall spread of the virus across the state.

“If you get life insurance and you’re a smoker, you pay a higher premium than those who don’t,” he said. “The insurance companies have things like this built-in already.”

Joining Stewart among Republican lawmakers pushing back against the legislation is state Rep. Adam Niemerg (R-Teutopolis), who has introduced his own legislation that he says would protect unvaccinated Illinoisans from being discriminated against for refusing the vaccine.

“It gives folks freedom to make the decision for themselves,” he said. “The freedom to talk to their doctors and have the conversation on whether they want to or don’t want to take the COVID vaccine.”

According to NPR, Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian recently announced unvaccinated company workers will be required to pay an extra $200 a month for their health insurance.

"This surcharge will be necessary to address the financial risk the decision to not vaccinate is creating for our company," he wrote.

Back in September, a Society for Human Resource Management survey found that nearly 20 percent of large companies were considering making a similar move.