Illinois Opens Grant Process for Health Guides

llinois Gov. Pat Quinn has announced that federal grants worth $28 million will be distributed to qualifying community groups that want to help educate consumers about the new online marketplace for health insurance.

The state will accept applications through May 30.

The national health overhaul law requires insurance marketplaces to be operating in every state by Oct. 1. People who are uninsured will be able to comparison shop for affordable health plans on these sites and many will qualify for tax credits.

Illinois officials estimate that more than half the consumers who seek coverage in the marketplace will need help.

They'll get that help from trained guides who will be hired and supervised by community organizations receiving grants.