‘New reality’ applies to legislators, too

In his April 23 letter to the editor, “Will we cut benefits for lawmakers, too?” Mr. Roger Thomas Seely points out how, in a “new reality,” benefit cuts to the Teachers’ Retirement System will be made. Mr. Seely asks if the legislators, who are responsible for underfunding this and other programs for many years, have any intention of applying the same “new reality” to their own pensions and health insurance. Of course the answer is that they do not.

I am a parent of two adults with intellectual disabilities who receive some services through Medicaid. I have read that the “new reality” also includes a proposal to significantly cut the already reduced rates that medical providers receive for serving people on Medicaid. Even now, before these cuts, doctors here in the Northwest suburbs and throughout the state have posted virtual signs on their doors, “Medicaid patients not welcome here.”

So, here is my suggestion: Illinois legislators may keep their current health insurance but with one minor change. Under their health insurance, their doctors and other providers will be paid at the exact same rate as they are proposing for Medicaid recipients. Oh, and those payments should be received in the same much delayed payment cycles that Medicaid providers are on. Imagine what huge savings will be made.

People with intellectual disabilities are our most vulnerable citizens. They are not to blame for the Medicaid crisis in Illinois. Why should they alone have to suffer for the irresponsible behavior of our legislators in Springfield? Gov. Pat Quinn continues to use the term “fairness” whenever he discusses the proposed Medicaid cuts. Our elected state officials’ health insurance should be the same as those on Medicaid. What’s fair is fair.

Micki Coppel

Schaumburg