Health Care Updates and News You Can Use

As Chicago continues to celebrate our Stanley Cup and with summer in full swing, I wanted to send you a brief update on what I am working on in Washington, as well as a few important dates to circle on your calendar.

In the wake of the unthinkable disaster in the Gulf Coast, I have introduced legislation to protect our coastlines. As a co-founder of the Transparency Caucus, I'm working to make the inner workings of Congress available to everyone. And just this week, I voted to make Wall St. accountable for its reckless behavior over the past decade.

Below, you'll find information about a few great features of health care reform that will be going into effect, an application to apply for Chicago Housing Authority family housing, and a reminder to get new passports before fee increases take effect.

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HEALTH CARE UPDATES
On July 1, one of the most important provisions of health care reform took effect with the creation of the Pre-existing Condition Insurance Plan. In mid-August, anyone who has been denied coverage because of pre-existing condition will be able to apply for coverage through Illinois' program. Also, seniors can look for $250 "donut hole reimbursement checks this fall and beginning in September young people will be able to stay on their parents' plans until they turn 26.

The Department of Health and Human Services has announced a great new resource with the launch of www.healthcare.gov. Please visit the site for in-depth FAQ's, a timeline for implementing new benefits, and tools for families, seniors, students, and small businesses.

CHA HOUSING APPLICATIONS DUE JULY 9
The Family Housing Wait List will be opened for the first time in a decade, allowing 40,000 families to be selected through a lottery. Anyone who is eligible can register online, and those selected will be offered housing in Chicago Housing Authority-owned properties across the city as it becomes available.

Anyone over 18 can register (those over 62 may qualify for senior housing), but forms must be received by July 9. To register and for more information about the program and eligibility click https://www.chawaitlist.org/HomePage or call 866/784-3242.

PASSPORT FEES TO INCREASE JULY 13
For anyone looking to get their first passport or renew an expiring one, now is the time to do it. On July 13, new and renewed adult passport fees will increase by $35 and passports for children under the age of 16 will cost an additional $20.

Click here for more details on the prices and download a passport application from the State Department at https://www.travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html.

It is a privilege serving you in the United States Congress and please don't hesitate to contact me or my staff if you have any questions or concerns.

My District Office is located at 3742 W. Irving Park in Chicago. Call us at 773/267-5926 or visit us online at www.quigley.house.gov.

Have a safe and happy 4th of July holiday, and I look forward to staying in touch.

Sincerely,

Mike Quigley
www.quigley.house.gov