SPRINGFIELD – Illinois residents with hereditary bleeding disorders will soon have improved access to their medication thanks to a new law from State Senator Dave Koehler that cuts red-tape practices used by insurance companies.

“Prior authorization processes are unnecessary checks that, in some instances, can cost a patient their life,” said Koehler (D-Peoria). “Lifesaving medication needs to be administered to those who need it without delays from insurance companies.”

The new law prohibits prior authorization for FDA-approved medication used for the treatment of hereditary bleeding disorders for up to six months. Prior authorization is a form of approval by insurance companies utilized before agreeing to cover medications and procedures. These checks can be for age, medical necessity, the availability of a medical alternative or drug interactions.

According to the American Society of Hematology, mortality rates and hospitalization rates for bleeding complications from hemophilia — an inherited bleeding disorder in which the blood does not clot properly — were 40% lower among people who received care in hemophilia treatment centers than those who did not receive this care. By eliminating prior authorization, Koehler’s law will streamline the processes for patients to receive necessary treatment.

“Many patients do not have time to wait on unnecessary barriers before taking their medication,” said Koehler. “We need to put the individuals whose lives are at stake first.”

House Bill 4055 was signed into law Friday and takes effect Jan. 1, 2026.