Chicago Public Hearing on Illinois State Single-Payer Bill
"Health Care for All Illinois Act" (HB 311)

Saturday, June 7
Simeon Career Academy High School
8235 S. Vincennes
11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

For the first time in Illinois history, a single-payer payer bill ("The Health Care for All Illinois Act" - HB 311) passed with approval from the Health Committee of the Illinois House of Representatives, and is headed for a full floor vote later this year.

Polls indicate health care costs as one of the key issues for people going into the 2008 Presidential elections, particularly as the economy becomes more uncertain. We have an incredible opportunity here in Illinois. A single-payer system would allow everyone health care coverage in the state regardless of employment, status, age or if you have a pre-existing condition. A similar bill is trying to be passed in California. Essentially it puts people's health care needs first, making them a right not a privilege.

In the run-up to a full Illinois Assembly vote on HB 311, lead sponsor IL Rep. Mary Flowers will be holding hearings around the state to call attention to the Illinois health crisis and the single-payer solution, bringing the message to IL House members' individual districts.

So far, the following with be testifying: representatives from the American Medical Student Association (AMSA), RNs with National Nurses Organizing Committee (NNOC) who work in the Cook County public health system, doctors with Physicians for a National Health Program (PNHP), social workers, nursing students, patients both with and without health insurance including Donna and Larry Smith who appeared in Michael Moore's 2007 movie SiCKO, workers with Service Employees International Union (SEIU), members of Metro Seniors and immigrant rights activists.

The Chicago Single-Payer Action Network (CSPAN) is working with the above organizations to help mobilize people for this hearing. The health care crisis affects so many people -- we encourage anyone who is a victim of this broken system or knows someone who has been to please come out, give testimony, and support HB 311. We want to send a clear message to Illinois politicians we want a new health care system in this state where everyone is covered. Please contact CSPAN at either 312/714-5154 or e-mail chisinglepayer@ gmail.com if you would like to attend or testify at this upcoming hearing.

Please also check our website at www.chispan. org for more information on the single-payer solution to the current health care nightmare in this country.