Immigration groups outline plans for upcoming state reforms

Angelica Garcia, 51, of West Chicago, said she wants Illinois to expand a Medicaid-like program that would provide immigrants like herself health benefits. Garcia was diagnosed in 2015 with mixed connective tissue disease. She was among a group of immigration advocates who detailed Wednesday, Jan. 26, 2022, reforms they plan to push for this year in Illinois. | Screenshot

Angelica Garcia pays about $700 each month for a private insurance because of her immigration status to help her live with mixed connective tissue disease.

Since she was diagnosed with the disease in 2015, she and her family have had to watch their expenses to ensure she’s able to buy medication she needs because her life expectancy could diminish without them, she said.