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SPRINGFIELD IL -- There may soon be some additional relief for seniors who depend on meal services, like Meals on Wheels.

Illinois' 97th state Rep. Jim Watson is sponsoring legislation that would help provide meals to seniors in rural areas, where almost 70 percent of seniors don't have access to meal programs.  Watson says having programs like these are vital in keeping seniors healthy.

"Something that we take for grant in larger areas is that a lot of these people in rural locations have no access at all to these meal programs. And we need to get them meals one, for the nutritional value, and two for the social interaction. And I think this is the least we can do and should do," Watson said.

The program is also unique because it wouldn't rely solely on state funding. It would be paid for by a combination of privately owned businesses like nursing homes and restaurants, and a public program would be responsible for deliveries.  That bill is currently awaiting Senate approval.