Cost of new mandate to extend coverage in Illinois remains in dispute

A new law pushed through by Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich and set to take effect Jan. 1 will require insurers in Illinois to let young adults stay on their parents' policies until the age of 26. The move reflects a growing trend among states and big business. Although providing coverage to the age bracket will cost money, it won't be a huge factor in contributing to rising healthcare costs, say actuarial analysts at some of the world's biggest health benefits consulting firms.