SPRINGFIELD - January 6, 2011. Governor Pat Quinn today issued a statement on the General Assembly's passage of Medicaid reform legislation.
"Today is an important day for our state. For too long we have simply talked about Medicaid reform; today we are following through with legislation that will help stabilize our budget and rebuild the foundations of our economy. This bill will streamline services and eliminate inefficiencies, saving the state hundreds of millions of dollars. In addition, it will improve efficiency in the program to ensure that Medicaid patients in Illinois are receiving the highest quality of care.
"This bill reflects a truly bipartisan effort by our General Assembly. I would like to thank the Medicaid reform committees, as well as bill sponsors Representative Barbara Flynn Currie, Representative Patti Bellock, Senator Heather Steans and Senator Dale Righter for their dedication; their support was critical in my administration's drive to pass this legislation. Thanks also to my healthcare advisor Michael Gelder and Healthcare and Family Services Director Julie Hamos for their tremendous work in crafting and helping pass this bill.
"This is a powerful example of the reforms Illinois needs to stabilize its budget, and the kind of legislation I will continue to work with the General Assembly to pass. I look forward to receiving this bill from the legislature and acting on it soon."
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