SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — Gov. JB Pritzker signed a bill into law Tuesday to make Illinois the first state to issue vaccine recommendations independent of the CDC. Democrats believe Illinois should ensure healthcare regardless of decisions made by the federal government.

"While RFK Jr. and his QAnon-inspired colleagues spreading conspiracy theories and dangerous misinformation about vaccines are running around Washington, Illinois is stepping up to protect the health of our people," Pritzker said.

The Illinois Department of Public Health currently has an advisory committee responsible for reviewing vaccines, but this law will expand its authority and allow the agency to issue evidence-based recommendations on vaccines and treatments during disease outbreaks and public health emergencies.

"House Bill 767 is a promise that in Illinois, our children will be safe and our communities will be informed, even when our federal government spews endless lies," said Rep. Bob Morgan (D-Highland Park). 

The law also states IDPH will follow vaccine guidance from the World Health Organization if the Food and Drug Administration does not approve the treatment. 

Republicans strongly oppose the idea, as they argue it is an example of "Trump derangement syndrome."

"We are pro-vaccination, but this bill makes sure that we can't vote for it," said Rep. Bill Hauter (R-Morton). "We have a bill that's signaling to their base how much they're battling the evil Trump administration."

This law also requires health insurance plans to cover vaccines recommended by IDPH without cost-sharing. Leaders said that coverage will take effect in mid-December to help remove financial barriers to vaccines.

"The bill also lowers the age at which children can receive certain immunizations like COVID-19 and flu at pharmacies from the previous seven years of age to now three," said IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra.

The legislation passed out of the House and Senate along partisan lines.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services told WAND News the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices remains the nation's scientific compass for vaccine policy. HHS Press Secretary Emily Hilliard said the Trump administration will ensure future public health decisions are grounded in rigorous evidence and gold standard science instead of "failed politics of the COVID-19 pandemic." 

Vaccine language included in House Bill 767 took effect immediately, while changes to the state's insurance code will take effect Jan. 1.

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