(The Center Square)–A member of Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s administration says Medicaid plays a critical role for reproductive health services in Illinois.
The governor joined abortion advocacy groups in Chicago Wednesday to announce a new fund connecting donor support with organizations protecting and expanding reproductive health access.
“We have witnessed an all-out assault on abortion and gender-affirming care, led by the Trump administration and carried out in too many states across the country,” Pritzker said.
The governor announced the launch of the Prairie State Access Fund, a new initiative of Michael Reese Health Trust to strengthen reproductive and sexual health care access in Illinois.
Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services Director Lizzy Whitehorn spoke after Pritzker.
“Medicaid plays a critical role in supporting access to a wide range of reproductive health services for Illinoisans. Medicaid covers more than three million Illinois residents, which is close to a quarter of our state’s population,” Whitehorn said.
Whitehorn said nearly a quarter of the almost 155,000 people who left their home states for abortion services in 2024 came to Illinois.
State Rep. Norine Hammond, R-Moline, said Illinois should not use any Medicaid dollars to provide abortions.
“It’s another example where the governor has been using Medicaid funds for illegals for their health care, including abortions,” Hammond told The Center Square.
According to the Illinois Comptroller’s office, fiscal year 2025 spending on Medicaid expenses for state residents totaled $35.9 billion.
The Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services is the primary administrator of the state’s Medicaid spending.
Hammond said she was not surprised by the governor’s move but said Illinois already has lax abortion laws and accessibility at every corner.
“Rather than provide relief in other areas, why are we putting relief into this?” Hammond asked.
Hammond said it is unconscionable that Illinois continues to “expand and expand and expand” on abortion.
Pritzker’s announcement came five days after Vice President J.D. Vance spoke at the National March for Life in Washington, D.C.
Vance said life is a gift.
“We know babies are precious because we know them and we love them and we see the way that they can transform our families,” Vance said.
For Emergency Preparedness, Don’t Forget the Meds
Being prepared is more than just a good idea—it’s essential. We stock up on non-perishable food, bottled water, flashlights, and first-aid supplies, but one critical aspect often gets overlooked: access to vital medications. What happens if pharmacies close, prescriptions can’t be filled, or you’re cut off from medical care during an emergency?
That’s where Jase Medical steps in, offering a reliable solution to ensure you and your family have the medications you need when it matters most.
Jase Medical specializes in emergency preparedness kits designed to provide peace of mind through physician-reviewed, prescription medications delivered right to your door. Their flagship product, the Jase Case, is a comprehensive emergency antibiotic and medication kit priced at $289.95.
This kit includes 10 essential medications—five life-saving antibiotics and five symptom relief meds—that can treat over 50 common infections and illnesses, from urinary tract infections and pneumonia to skin infections and traveler’s diarrhea. With 28 add-on options available, you can customize the kit to fit your specific needs, including a KidCase for children ages 2-11.
The process is straightforward and hassle-free. Simply visit Patriot.tv/meds, complete an online evaluation, and have your order reviewed by a board-certified physician. Once approved, the medications are shipped discreetly from a licensed pharmacy to your U.S. address (with plans for Canada shipping coming soon). Each kit comes with detailed Med Cards outlining symptoms, dosing, and usage, making it easy to administer even in high-stress situations. These medications are shelf-stable and designed for long-term storage, empowering you to handle medical emergencies without relying on external help.
For those on the move, Jase Medical also offers the Jase Go kit for $129.95, a compact travel med kit covering over 30 common conditions encountered during adventures or trips. And for ongoing needs, Jase Daily provides an extended supply of your prescribed chronic medications to safeguard against disruptions in supply chains or extreme weather events.
Don’t just take our word for it—thousands of satisfied customers have given Jase Medical a 4.9-star rating, praising its role in true preparedness. As radio host Glenn Beck warns, “The supply lines for antibiotics already are stressed to the max. Please have some antibiotics on hand… You can do it through Jase.”
Whether you’re prepping for a hurricane, a power outage, or simply the uncertainties of daily life, Jase Medical ensures you’re not caught off guard. Head to patriot.tv/meds today to customize and order your emergency kit—because when it comes to your health and safety, it’s better to be prepared than sorry.