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ILLINOIS (WCIA) — For some in Illinois, hospital bills may begin to look a little different in the new year.
Beginning in January, hospitals will be prohibited from directly billing a patient that is 138% below the federal poverty line.
In 2024, the Federal Poverty Guidelines was $15,060 for a one-person household, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. 138% would be around $20,782 for a one-person household.
SB 2442 ensures that hospitals do not charge or bill a patient with an income less than 138% of the federal poverty level.
You can read more about the new law here. For a full list of laws beginning in the new year, click here.