A bill on Gov. JB Pritzker's desk could require insurance companies to cover mental health care for people healing from miscarriage or stillbirth.

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — A bill on Gov. JB Pritzker's desk could require insurance companies to cover mental health care for people healing from miscarriage or stillbirth.

The state currently requires insurance coverage for mental, emotional, nervous or substance use treatments for pregnant people through delivery, postpartum and neonatal care.

"But there is no requirement to provide those services in the case of miscarriage or stillbirth," said Sen. Linda Holmes (D-Aurora). "House Bill 5282 adds coverage for individuals needing those services as a result of a miscarriage or stillbirth."

Sponsors said the grief people experience can trigger anxiety, stress, depression and substance abuse. 

The legislation could take effect on January 1, 2026 if the governor signs the plan into law.

"People who are suffering and who feel alone and that there's nowhere to turn often can't heal or practice adequate self-care," said Rep. Anne Stava-Murray (D-Naperville). "That's why I'm taking action to show them that help exists an that they do have a way forward." 

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