Geneva hearing tackles universal health care

GENEVA — Tears and cheers rose from the Kane County Government Center Thursday night as citizens and Illinois state representatives gathered to discuss the controversial topic of universal health care.

State Rep. Mary Flowers, D-Chicago, led a citizen hearing to clarify issues surrounding Illinois House Bill 311 and problems with the current health-care system in Illinois.

"We are not for sale," Flowers said of raising health insurance premiums. "This is about our lives."

HB 311 promises to provide comprehensive single-payer health insurance for all Illinois residents — a concept that is also gaining attention on a national level as the presidential election approaches.