SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — Gov. JB Pritzker signed a bill into law Friday to help women receive proper medical treatment for menopause.

Healthcare professionals in Illinois are already required to complete a one-hour implicit bias training during their license renewal period. However, this law will allow a course covering perimenopause and menopause to satisfy the requirement.

"These are real medical experiences that deserve informed, evidence-based responses," said Sen. Adriane Johnson (D-Waukegan). "When providers are equipped with better knowledge, patients receive better healthcare."

This law passed unanimously out of both chambers. It will take effect Jan. 1. 

Pritzker also signed legislation mandating private insurance plans cover medically necessary evaluation and treatment of perimenopause and menopause conditions, including hormone conditions and medications. It also amends the Human Rights Act to state it is unlawful to discriminate against an individual due to a menopause-related condition, including in the workplace.

"Illinois should be a leader in caring for women going through perimenopause and menopause - and that means removing obstacles that have held too many back from getting help," said Senate Majority Leader Kimberly Lightford (D-Maywood). "Requiring private insurance to cover these evaluations and treatments will make care more affordable and help prevent serious long-term health issues." 

The law also called for the Illinois Department of Public Health to create educational materials that include common symptoms, evidence-based treatment and available resources. 

House Bill 5284 passed out of the Senate on a 51-4 vote. The proposal received a 78-33 vote in the House. 

A separate law will require education on menopause and perimenopause, as well as on recognition and engagement, at all Illinois medical schools. Sponsors said this small change can help improve health outcomes for women.

"We need to talk about it," said Sen. Meg Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). "We deserve the same healthcare as everybody else. This is an issue of equity, and we're going to keep fighting for that."

Senate Bill 3688 passed unanimously out of both chambers. 

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