Illinois lawmakers have passed legislation to create a state-run health insurance exchange.
The legislation is supported by Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker. The $10 million start-up cost for the exchange is included in the governor's proposed budget.
The legislation, passed May 26, would move the state to a state-based ACA exchange using the federal platform for the 2025 plan year, and a fully state-based exchange for the 2026 plan year.
A state-based insurance marketplace "represents progress in creating a healthcare system in Illinois that ensures every person who is eligible can access the care and treatment they deserve," Mr. Pritzker said in a statement shared with Becker's May 4.
Illinois would become the 19th state to operate its own ACA exchange. According to CMS, 17 states and the District of Columbia have opted to run their own exchanges rather than use the federal marketplace.
Georgia is the most recent state to pass legislation to create a state-based exchange. Gov. Brian Kemp signed a bill creating a state-based platform into law May 2, pending approval from CMS.
Illinois legislators also approved a measure to grant the state's Department of Insurance the authority to review and approve premium rates in the individual and small group markets.
"We're holding health insurance companies accountable, preventing unnecessary rate hikes, and ensuring residents who are eligible to receive health insurance get connected to the plans they deserve," Mr. Pritzker said in a May 27 tweet.