Illinois Senate Passes Bill to Ban Life Insurance Discrimination Based on Criminal Records
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — The Illinois Senate has given its approval to a bill that seeks to eliminate discrimination in the life insurance industry by prohibiting companies from limiting or denying coverage due to an individual’s criminal history. State Sen. Adriane Johnson (D-Waukegan) championed the proposal, arguing that families should not be left financially vulnerable because of a crime committed by a loved one in the past.
“We need to remove the invisible barriers that prevent productive citizens from providing for their families,” Johnson stated. “By allowing them to access life insurance, we’re giving them a chance to secure their loved ones’ futures.”
The bill passed with a partisan vote of 36-18-1, marking a significant step toward insurance reform in Illinois. It will now be sent to the Governor’s office for final approval. If signed into law, the legislation would ensure that life insurance companies can no longer use criminal records as a basis for denying coverage, thereby promoting greater financial security for families across the state.
