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Several new laws went into effect on January 1, 2010 that may affect YOU, either personally or in your practice. Click here to see a quick list, culled from a list provided by Senate Minority Leader Christine Radogno and her staff.
Legislative Report
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By Betsy D. Mitchell, MPA, Legislative Consultant
September 2009
What’s happening in Springfield?
The Budget:
In mid-July, the Illinois General Assembly passed a budget that relies heavily on additional borrowing and still will only cover approximately 86% of last year’s funding levels. In addition, the budget that was passed is a ‘lump sum’ budget rather than specifying a dollar amount for each service and program. This budget has given Governor Quinn and his state agency directors the ultimate authority in deciding how to spend the money within each department. To see how the Governor has directed each agency to spend this year’s funding you may visit www.budget.illinois.gov.
Legislation was also passed to provide that physicians, hospitals, and nursing homes should receive Medicaid reimbursements every 30 days. This money is coming from the federal stimulus package. In talking with officials at the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services, I have learned that funds to be used to pay physicians every thirty days have already run dry.
Politically Speaking:
On the political front, candidates are beginning to make their intentions known. Our next primary election will be in February 2010 with the general election in November 2010. This means that right now we beginning to see candidates in our communities asking for our support. Getting involved in a political campaign is one of the best ways to develop a solid working relationship with a candidate who could become an influential elected official. Remember to always do campaign work on your own time and to check with the rules and guidelines where you are employed, if applicable.
Fall Veto Session
When the House and Senate adjourned in July they adjourned to the call of either the Speaker or the President (HJR 69). This means that the Speaker or President could call them back to Springfield but it is unlikely this will happen. They also issued the 2009 Veto Session calendar. The dates are:
October 5 – House & Senate perfunctory veto session
October 14, 15, 16 – 1st week
October 28, 29, 30 – 2nd week
These two weeks go by quickly, but provide an excellent opportunity for you to visit your legislators in Springfield. If you do not have pending legislation to discuss, meet with your legislators to provide them with an update on the services you provide. This is also the perfect time to provide an outline of our plans for 2010 and beyond.
Legislation of Interest:
To view all legislation, go to: www.ilga.gov
House Bill 645 (Burke, D-Chicago) -- After negotiations and the acceptance of an amendment offered by the Illinois Academy of Family Physicians, this bill clarifies that when and if a chiropractor writes a note for sick leave, it must be written within their scope of practice. It cannot be for an excuse for cold, the flu, or something like that. Following the amendment, all health care organizations removed their opposition. This legislation became effective on the day the Governor signed the bill into law on August 13, 2009.
Who Do You Know? Let IOMS know who you know in state government
Do you know your legislators or Governor Quinn? If you know them or want to get to know them, please let us know. If you are willing to get to know your legislator, IOMS can help.
If you are unsure who your legislators are contact us or go to the Illinois State Board of Elections web site: www.elections.state.il.us/DistrictLocator/SelectSearchType.aspx.
Now is an excellent time to get to know your legislators. Become their expert on issues affecting public health. Many legislators have policy committees for community members to participate on. If your legislator does not, suggest one and participate.
Also invite legislators to a special event or meeting. Provide an opportunity for them to see the vital service you provide to your community.
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