Statement from Speaker Welch: Governor Signs Bill Allowing Reopening of Westlake Hospital

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Today, Governor Pritzker signed legislation that enables Westlake Hospital in Cook County to reopen.

Speaker Welch releases the following statement:

"After fighting more than a year to keep Westlake Hospital open, I thank Governor Pritzker for swiftly signing SB 168 into law. Because of our quick action, it's now easier to sell and reopen Westlake Hospital since it serves underserved, low-income communities—something that's absolutely needed right now. This is a good example of how to address administrative barriers that have ended up institutionalizing racial and socioeconomic disparities. Equity requires intentionality and I'm glad we were able to make this happen for families in the western suburbs."