Fact checked by Derick Wilder
Extra Help with Prescription Costs
Effective January 2024
Many seniors on Medicare who need extra help paying for medications, premiums, deductibles, coinsurance, and other healthcare costs may now qualify for help under Medicare’s expansion of the Extra Help program. Income limits to qualify are $22,590 for an individual and $30,660 for a married couple in 2024. If you qualify, you will pay nothing for Part D (drug coverage) premiums, and you will receive reduced copays, along with other benefits. For more information, call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213.
Indoor E-Cigarette Ban
Effective January 2024
People may no longer use e-cigarettes at indoor public spaces in Illinois under the Smoke Free Illinois Act. This includes bars, restaurants, lobbies, and other venues. Illinois lawmakers pursued the bill, (HB 1540), because “e-cigarettes contain nicotine and other chemicals which can be harmful to both those who use them and those who are exposed to them,” Illinois Department of Public Health Director Sameer Vohra, MD, said in a press release. “Just like smoking, vaping can lead to lung damage and nicotine addiction.”
Paid Sick Leave
Effective July 2024
A new ordinance in Chicago mandates paid sick leave up to seven days for employees who have worked 80 hours within any 120-day period. The law also allows for workers to carry over up to 20 hours of unused sick leave to the following year. In some cases, workers can carry over up to 40 hours.
Originally published in the Spring/Summer 2024 print issue.
Ronit Rose is a freelance writer, based in Chicago. She has a special interest in health, healthcare and preventive medicine.
