SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Graciela Guzmán’s bill to enshrine the right to wear protective medical equipment without fear of retaliation passed committee Thursday.
“Protecting one’s health and body is a right that is under assault across our nation,” said Guzmán (D-Chicago). “No one should be harassed or discriminated against because of health equipment they need.
The Protective Medical Equipment Freedom Act – or Kiki’s Law – would give all individuals theright to wear protective medical equipment in public accommodations without having to disclose personal health information. It prohibits discrimination, harassment, denial of service, eviction, retaliation, or employer penalties related to wearing protective medical equipment, with limited exceptions for security and operational safety.
An initiative of Access Living and the Right to Mask Coalition, the legislation honors the legacy of Colette “Kiki” Walkington, who had complex medical needs. Following a kidney transplant from her father, Kiki relied on immunosuppressants and was at risk of serious illness. Medical masks worn by her family provided protection and allowed Kiki to live a fuller life.
“Access Living and the entire Right to Mask Coalition are incredibly excited to see SB 3340 pass out of committee,” said Sebastian Nall, policy analyst at Access Living. “There is much work to do, but we look forward to advancing this important legislation for Illinoisans with Disabilities. Thank you to our Chief Sponsor Graciela Guzman, Chair Rachel Ventura, and members of the Human Rights Committee.”
“The politicization of medical equipment is a threat to at-risk communities and public health,” said Guzmán. “We must ensure mask bans or other kinds of medical based harassment never occur in Illinois.”
Senate Bill 3340 passed the Human Rights Committee and heads to the full Senate for further consideration.
