24
Feb
2015
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. - A new three-year program to tackle diabetes will be launched in Rock Island County if legislation sponsored by state Rep. Mike Smiddy, D-Hillsdale, becomes law.
"This legislation will help not-for-profits continue their great work battling diabetes through education and exercise opportunities in our community," Smiddy said. "Initiatives like the diabetes pilot program that work to decrease disease in our communities are ideas the state should fund and expand to help more Illinoisans."
Smiddy is sponsoring House Bill 1514, which creates a three-year diabetes prevention pilot program in Rock Island County through a partnership with local nonprofits and the Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS). HFS will choose a provider for the task force and that nonprofit will receive Medicaid reimbursement for their effort to prevent diabetes in the community. Smiddy will push this measure through the legislative process this spring, with the hope of it becoming law and going into effect immediatly after being signed by the governor.
"By removing the financial burden the program currently places on men and women that administer this program, we can help the local nonprofit expand their ability combat this deadly disease and save lives," Smiddy said. "The health and vitality of our community remains a priority for me, and I'll continue to support initiatives that empower community groups to improve the well-being of our residents."
House Bill 1514 was introduced in February and awaits consideration in a House committee.
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