Springfield, IL – This week, State Senator Emil Jones III (D-Chicago) passed legislation that will create the Roseland Community Medical District.

Jones’ legislation, House Bill 1888, creates the Roseland Community Medical District Commission to coordinate efforts to develop and implement a master plan for the new district.

"The creation of this new medical district will revitalize the Roseland Community Hospital and the surrounding area," Jones said. "The Roseland Community Medical District will improve the quality of medical services for patients and generate improved medical research by streamlining of the area’s healthcare facilities."

Currently, there are three existing medical districts in Illinois. This legislation will give the state its 4th medical district, 2nd in Chicago. Medical districts are legal entities that can solicit funds, enter into leases, and perform other functions related to the expansion, development and maintenance of health facilities. They do not have taxing authority.

Senator Ed Maloney (D-Chicago) spoke in favor of Senator Jones’ bill and the potential good it can bring to the area in terms of additional medical facilities and employment in the fast-growing health care sector.

"A medical district provides good opportunities for economic growth in a community," said Senator Maloney. "Roseland is the only hospital on the south side, so it can attract valuable medical services to the area. This district would create new, good-paying jobs."

Senator Jones agreed, "The medical district will create jobs and lead to further economic development in the surrounding communities."

HB 1888 now goes to the Governor for further consideration.