Representative Wait Passes Two Bills in House

Springfield, IL… On his 64th birthday Tuesday, State Representative Ron Wait (R-Belvidere) passed two key bills through the Illinois House of Representatives.

“This was quite the birthday present,” said Wait. “When the first bill passed unanimously, I knew it was going to be a good day. Passage of the second measure made the day complete.”

House Bill 5906 was the bill that passed unanimously. This legislation allows veterans of foreign wars easy access to small business loans. Businesses that are at least 51% owned and managed by a veteran are eligible for a loan through the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity.

“Soldiers returning from war should have every opportunity to achieve the American dream. Because of their sacrifice, we owe them support and assistance,” said Wait.

House Bill 5954 passed the House with a vote of 88 to 24. It will help the uninsured by allowing the purchaser of a health insurance plan the option to waive certain coverages that were once required.

“Say a recent college graduate wants basic health insurance while looking for a job. Under the current law, he or she would have to pay for coverage for infertility treatment, contraceptives, mammogram and mastectomy coverage, clinical breast exams, Pap and Prostate tests, colon cancer screenings and prenatal HIV testing,” stated Wait. “My legislation would allow those coverages to be waived, making insurance more affordable for the student.”

Having passed the House, both bills will now advance to the Senate for consideration.