SPRINGFIELD — A new law championed by State Senator Adriane Johnson is now in effect, ensuring Illinoisans with past felony convictions cannot be denied final expense life insurance coverage solely because of their record.

“For many families, final expense insurance is a small but critical tool to ease the financial burden of end-of-life costs,” said Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove). “No one should be shut out of planning for their future because of a mistake they’ve already paid for. This law restores fairness and basic dignity.”

The new law — originally House Bill 2425 — prohibits insurers from refusing coverage, limiting benefits, or charging higher premiums for final expense policies based only on an applicant’s felony conviction. These protections apply to people who have completed their sentences and do not extend to individuals who are currently incarcerated.

Final expense policies, often known as burial or funeral insurance, are designed to help families cover funeral services, medical bills and other end-of-life needs. Illinois already bans certain forms of discrimination in insurance underwriting, including discrimination based on disability, veteran status, blindness and travel history. Johnson’s law adds past felony convictions to that list for final expense policies.

“This law sends a clear message that rehabilitation should come with the opportunity to rebuild,” Johnson said. “By removing unnecessary barriers, we are supporting stability for families and reducing the stigma that follows people long after they leave the justice system.”

House Bill 2425 takes effect Jan. 1.