(WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- Some elected leaders are criticizing a move by the Pritzker Administration to reduce access to a program that provides health care for undocumented immigrants.
Chicago Congresswoman Delia Ramirez, D-Chicago says it is "extremely disappointing" that Gov. Pritzker has chosen to make the change, which includes requiring co-pays and -- for now -- ending enrollment for people aged 42 to 64.
Ramirez, a former state representative, says the move will “put thousands of hard-working, tax-paying immigrants' lives in danger.”
The Chicago City Council's Latino Caucus isn’t not pleased, either. It has issued a statement calling the action "inhumane." It says many immigrants will just end up in the emergency room, costing the state even more.
The Pritzker Administration says the changes will help keep the healthcare programs costs from exceeding the funds available.
Ramirez says she and others believe the cost projections for the healthcare coverage are estimated too high. She says if the administration and Latino officials can meet and talk, the program can be saved.
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