Month: March 2020

Bill to Ensure Planned Parenthood Funding In Wake Of Trump Administration Cuts, Co-Sponsored By Senator Abrams, Receives Public Hearing

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Bill to Ensure Planned Parenthood Funding In Wake Of Trump Administration Cuts, Co-Sponsored By Senator Abrams, Receives Public Hearing

HARTFORD – Today, legislation that would close a funding gap caused by President Donald Trump’s intended changes to the Title X Family Planning Program received a public hearing in the Human Services Committee. This legislation, co-sponsored by State Senator Mary Daugherty Abrams (D-Meriden, Middlefield, Rockfall, Middletown, Cheshire) counters the President’s intended changes, which are still being legally challenged by 20 states.

“We should put our money into the things we care about, and it is time that we stand up for women in this state when the federal government will not,” said Sen. Abrams. “We must protect Planned Parenthood in its ability to provide women with all the health care options to which they are legally entitled, and ensure that the many people who receive a diverse range of services from Planned Parenthood can continue to do so. Places like Planned Parenthood provide essential health care to people who might not be able to afford it otherwise, and the lack of Title X federal funding threatens these people’s access to time sensitive healthcare. I call upon the Human Services Committee to pass this bill and move us one step closer to fully funding this vital healthcare service.”

Senate Bill 274, “An Act Concerning Increased Funding to Planned Parenthood and Other Family Planning Clinics,” would provide state Title X family planning clinics in Connecticut with an additional $2.4 million in funding. Such an amount would rectify the drastic cuts made by President Trump’s administration.

In response to a gag order issued by the Trump administration prohibiting health care providers from counseling patients about abortion, Planned Parenthood announced it will no longer receive Title X funding to avoid the consequences of the order. Planned Parenthood of Southern New England, which operates 12 health clinics in Connecticut, would forego $2.1 million in federal funding under that rule. While 20 states are challenging the gag order, a federal appeals court ruled the policy changes can take effect while those lawsuits continue.

Planned Parenthood of Southern New England statistics show that nearly 44,000 patients received services and support through Title X funding in 2017. One-third of those patients were under the age of 25, one-third of those patients earned less than $12,000, one-third were Latino and one-third were African American. Nationally, more than four million people rely on Title X funding to access essential health care.

 

Senator Abrams Testifies In Support Of The Connecticut Plan

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Senator Abrams Testifies In Support Of The Connecticut Plan

HARTFORD, CT – Today, State Senator Mary Daugherty Abrams (D-Meriden, Middlefield, Rockfall, Middletown, Cheshire) testified at the Insurance & Real Estate Committee’s public hearing in support of legislation creating a public option for health insurance for Connecticut residents, working families and small businesses. Sen. Abrams also joined Insurance and Real Estate Committee Co-Chairs state Senator Matt Lesser (D-Middletown) and state Representative Sean Scanlon (D-Guilford) along with State Comptroller Kevin Lembo this morning as they announced the legislation.

“Affordable quality health care is one of the concerns I hear most about in the district, and I am glad that it is being addressed in the Insurance Committee today. Health care is a right not a privilege—everyone is entitled to quality health care regardless of their employment status. The Connecticut Plan would increase access to the health care we all deserve by giving more citizens the opportunity to participate in an affordable and quality insurance option. This legislation is good for small businesses, nonprofits, entrepreneurs, employers, and employees alike,” said Sen. Abrams. “No one should be denied care or financially ruined when faced with a healthcare crisis. That is why I am committed to improving our healthcare system in Connecticut, and why I support the Connecticut plan.”

“The rising cost of health insurance is killing the budgets of families and companies across our state and people are rightly looking to us for solutions,” said Rep. Scanlon. “The Connecticut Plan will give individuals, non-profits and small businesses the option of the kind of quality and affordable health care plan they desperately need.”

“How much longer can we explain to the rest of Connecticut that we, as elected officials, are okay with enjoying our highest-quality health care, but unwilling to even allow them – small businesses, nonprofits and workers – to buy in to that same coverage or otherwise ensure quality affordable choices?” Comptroller Kevin Lembo said. “I will testify, advocate for and demand as many times as I must that we finally make things right by Connecticut workers and businesses. They deserve the same opportunities that we have to buy in to high-quality affordable health care.”

Senate Bill 346, An Act Concerning Public Options for Health Care in Connecticut,” will give Connecticut residents an affordable, quality health insurance choice. This choice will encourage healthy competition in the marketplace, leading to better prices and support for Connecticut consumers. Small businesses will no longer have to choose between their bottom line and offering their hard-working employees health insurance. A public option for health insurance is good for business, working families’ pocketbooks and the health of those in our state.

About Public Option Legislation: Per bill language, SB 346, An Act Concerning Public Options for Health Care in Connecticut,” will accomplish the following.

  • Establish the ConnectHealth Program, the ConnectHealth Trust Account and the ConnectHealth Advisory Board.
  • Require the Comptroller, in consultation with the ConnectHealth Advisory Board and the Office of Health Strategy, to establish the ConnectHealth Plan.
  • Authorize the Comptroller to offer coverage to plan participants and beneficiaries in this state under a multiemployer plan, nonprofit employers and their employees, and small employers and their employees.
  • Require the Commissioner of Social Services to seek to amend the federal waiver for the state-wide dental plan that provides for the administration of the dental services portion of the department’s medical assistance to expand coverage to include additional individuals in this state.

The high cost of health insurance has burdened Connecticut working families and small businesses for far too long. Premiums continue to rise, and deductibles have priced individuals out of receiving care, even if they have health insurance. Connecticut needs relief and the Connecticut Plan will provide a welcome option for families struggling with health care costs.

Last year, Sen. Lesser and Rep. Scanlon led the charge on similar legislation. Other states have attempted similar measures to bring down the high cost of care. Washington state passed a public option last year, and Virginia and Colorado have introduced public option bills, according to National Public Radio.

 

Senator Haskell Advocates In Support Of Public Option Legislation

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Senator Haskell Advocates In Support Of Public Option Legislation

HARTFORD, CT – Today, State Senator Will Haskell (D-Westport) advocated for legislation creating a public option for health insurance for Connecticut residents, working families and small businesses. Insurance and Real Estate Committee Co-Chairs state Senator Matt Lesser (D-Middletown) and state Representative Sean Scanlon (D-Guilford) announced the legislation today, saying Connecticut will benefit immensely from this common-sense policy.

“This bill is about providing options within the health insurance marketplace. Small businesses in my district regularly urge me to take action to lower their healthcare costs, and this bill would do just that,” said Sen. Haskell. “The public option is an opportunity for employers and individuals alike to find affordable plans offering strong coverage. I am excited to co-sponsor this legislation that would change lives and save lives.”

“The rising cost of health insurance is killing the budgets of families and companies across our state and people are rightly looking to us for solutions,” said Rep. Scanlon. “The Connecticut Plan will give individuals, non-profits and small businesses the option of the kind of quality and affordable health care plan they desperately need.”

“How much longer can we explain to the rest of Connecticut that we, as elected officials, are okay with enjoying our highest-quality health care, but unwilling to even allow them – small businesses, nonprofits and workers – to buy in to that same coverage or otherwise ensure quality affordable choices?” Comptroller Kevin Lembo said. “I will testify, advocate for and demand as many times as I must that we finally make things right by Connecticut workers and businesses. They deserve the same opportunities that we have to buy in to high-quality affordable health care.”

Senate Bill 346, An Act Concerning Public Options for Health Care in Connecticut,” will give Connecticut residents an affordable, quality health insurance choice. This choice will encourage healthy competition in the marketplace, leading to better prices and support for Connecticut consumers. Small businesses will no longer have to choose between their bottom line and offering their hard-working employees health insurance. A public option for health insurance is good for business, working families’ pocketbooks and the health of those in our state.

About Public Option Legislation: Per bill language, SB 346, An Act Concerning Public Options for Health Care in Connecticut,” will accomplish the following:

  • Establish the ConnectHealth Program, the ConnectHealth Trust Account and the ConnectHealth Advisory Board.
  • Require the Comptroller, in consultation with the ConnectHealth Advisory Board and the Office of Health Strategy, to establish the ConnectHealth Plan.
  • Authorize the Comptroller to offer coverage to plan participants and beneficiaries in this state under a multi employer plan, nonprofit employers and their employees, and small employers and their employees.
  • Require the Commissioner of Social Services to seek to amend the federal waiver for the state-wide dental plan that provides for the administration of the dental services portion of the department’s medical assistance to expand coverage to include additional individuals in this state.

The high cost of health insurance has burdened Connecticut working families and small businesses for far too long. Premiums continue to rise, and deductibles have priced individuals out of receiving care, even if they have health insurance. Making matters worse, prescription drug costs are outpacing inflation, according to the AARP. Connecticut needs relief and a public option for health insurance will provide said relief.

Last year, Sen. Lesser and Rep. Scanlon led the charge on similar legislation. Other states have attempted similar measures to bring down the high cost of care. Washington state passed a public option last year, and Virginia and Colorado have introduced public option bills, according to National Public Radio.

Legislation Providing Benefits to Hmong Laotian Veterans Who Fought During Vietnam War ‘Secret War’ Receives Public Hearing

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Legislation Providing Benefits to Hmong Laotian Veterans Who Fought During Vietnam War ‘Secret War’ Receives Public Hearing

HARTFORD – Yesterday, legislation providing veterans benefits to members of the Hmong Laotian special guerilla units who served in the secret war in the Kingdom of Laos during the Vietnam War received a public hearing in the Veterans’ Affairs Committee. This legislation, which would provide those individuals with legal veterans status, financial support for a funeral, and other similar benefits, was supported by legislators who want to support these men for their brave sacrifices to support the United States.

“These men fought hard and sacrificed to support the American people,” said Sen. Anwar. “I am proud that we moved forward an effort to recognize them for all they’ve done to support our country. I hope to support this legislation on the Senate floor.”

During the Vietnam War, members of the Hmong worked together with the CIA to conduct covert operations in Laos, also known as the “secret war.” Tens of thousands of men were killed during the war, more after its end. Though these men were hired and paid by the CIA, according to Twin Cities PBS, they are not recognized as United States veterans and as such receive no benefits. More than 35,000 Hmong and Lao soldiers died supporting the United States armed forces. If this legislation is approved by the House and Senate, these brave men will finally receive the support and respect they earned in battle.

 

Senator Hartley Votes To Support Passage of Bill in Committee to Cap Insulin Costs at $50; Public Hearing on Bill to Lower the Price of Prescription Drugs

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Senator Hartley Votes To Support Passage of Bill in Committee to Cap Insulin Costs at $50; Public Hearing on Bill to Lower the Price of Prescription Drugs

HARTFORD, CT – Today, State Senator Joan Hartley (D-Waterbury), Senate Vice Chair of the Insurance and Real Estate Committee, voted to pass legislation to cap the cost of insulin prescriptions at $50, the lowest cap in the country. Senate Bill (SB) 1, passed in a bipartisan 17-1 tally. The bill will now move to the state Senate for a vote.

Capping Insulin Prescriptions at $50

The bill, SB 1, contains several provisions to help diabetes patients and their families afford insulin.
They include:

Capping insulin costs including for all insulin and diabetes supplies at $150/month. This would be the toughest cap in the country.

  • Insulin is $50 per 30 day.
  • Non-insulin drugs (glucose) is $50 per 30 day.
  • Devices/equipment is $100 per 30 day.
  • Insulin + devices is $100 per month.

Allowing patients to go to a pharmacist up to three times a year on an emergency basis to get insulin filled without a prescription. Insurance must cover the cost up to 3 times a year for their policyholders. Everyone would have access to emergency insulin if they go to a pharmacist.

“This legislation will have far-reaching effect, ensuring that diabetics will know that the cost of insulin will be affordable,” said Sen. Hartley.

This timely proposed legislation comes as excessive insulin costs are severely impacting Connecticut’s diabetes patients. According to Health Care Cost Institute, the cost of insulin nearly tripled between 2002 and 2013, then doubled from that from 2012 to 2016. According to the AARP, “Americans with diabetes, the majority of whom are older adults, face insulin prices that average more than $5,000 per year.” Diabetes is the seventh-leading cause of death in Connecticut. This proposed legislation will save lives in Connecticut, ensuring the 11.4 percent of state’s population with diabetes, and 36.5 percent with prediabetes, can afford Insulin without having to adopt the unsafe practice of rationing their medicine.

Across the country, state governments are grappling with bringing down insulin costs. According to the AARP, last year Colorado passed legislation to cap out-of-pocket cost for insulin at $100 for a 30-day supply. According to a CNN report, Virginia’s House of Delegates passed legislation preventing insurance companies from charging co-pays over $30 for a 30-day insulin supply, Tennessee lawmakers introduced a bill to ensure patients do not have to pay over $100 for a 30-day supply of the drug and Illinois passed a bill capping Insulin costs as well.

Lowering the Cost of Prescription Drugs

The legislation, House Bill (HB) 5366, had a public hearing and will be voted on in committee at a date to be determined.

According to the bill’s proposed language, HB 5366 will accomplish the following to enable Connecticut residents to afford life-saving, essential prescription drugs:

  • Cap aggregate monthly cost-sharing for prescription drugs covered under certain individual and group health insurance policies at $250.
  • Cap the cost of generic drugs in this state.
  • Require the Commissioner of Consumer Protection to submit a request to the federal Secretary of Health and Human Services to implement a Canadian prescription drug reimportation program in this state and, if the secretary approves such request, implement such program in this state.
  • Require pharmaceutical manufacturers to send notice to the Insurance Commissioner regarding “pay-for-delay” agreements, and require health carriers and pharmacy benefits managers to reduce the cost of brand name prescription drugs that are the subject of such agreements. Establish a Critical Drug Shortage Review Board.
  • Limit the circumstances in which a health carrier may remove a prescription drug from a drug formulary or list of covered drugs, or move a prescription drug to a different cost-sharing tier, during a plan year.

This legislation is also incredibly timely as according to the AARP RX Price Watch, retail prices for widely used prescription drugs increased, on average, between 2006 and 2018. In 2018, retail prices for 267 brand name prescription drugs widely used by older adults increased by an average of 5.8 percent. In contrast, the general inflation rate was 2.4 percent over the same period.

According to a September report from the AARP Public Policy Institute, “retail prices for a combined set of 754 widely used brand name, generic, and specialty prescription drugs increased by an average of 4.2% in 2017, well above the general inflation rate of 2.1% for the same period.” They add, “this marked the 12th year in a row of often substantial drug price increases.”

Senator Needleman Supports, Commends Passage of Bill in Committee to Cap Insulin Costs at $50; Public Hearing on Bill to Lower the Price of Prescription Drugs

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Senator Needleman Supports, Commends Passage of Bill in Committee to Cap Insulin Costs at $50; Public Hearing on Bill to Lower the Price of Prescription Drugs

HARTFORD, CT – Today, State Senator Norm Needleman (D-Essex) commended colleagues State Senator Matt Lesser (D-Middletown) and State Representative Sean Scanlon (D-Guilford), the co-chairs of the legislature’s Insurance and Real Estate Committee, as they led passage in committee of a proposed bill to cap the cost of insulin prescriptions at $50, the lowest cap in the country. The legislators also held a public hearing on legislation to bring down the cost of prescription drugs. The insulin legislation, Senate Bill (SB) 1, passed in a bipartisan 17-1 tally. The bill will now move to the state Senate for a vote.

Capping Insulin Prescriptions at $50

The bill, SB 1, contains several provisions to help diabetes patients and their families afford insulin.
They include:

Capping insulin costs including for all insulin and diabetes supplies at $150/month. This would be the toughest cap in the country.

  • Insulin is $50 per 30 day.
  • Non-insulin drugs (glucose) is $50 per 30 day.
  • Devices/equipment is $100 per 30 day.
  • Insulin + devices is $100 per month.

Allowing patients to go to a pharmacist up to three times a year on an emergency basis to get insulin filled without a prescription. Insurance must cover the cost up to 3 times a year for their policyholders. Everyone would have access to emergency insulin if they go to a pharmacist.

Bill language was released in February following an announcement of the bill by state Senate Democratic Caucus in January. This proposal is priority number one for Senate Democrats for the 2020 legislative session. It is also priority No. 1 for the thousands of Connecticut residents suffering from diabetes, struggling to afford life-saving insulin due to outrageously high prices.

“I commend this strong step forward for Connecticut. Insulin is necessary for thousands every day; it should not be a commodity,” said Sen. Needleman. “Common sense legislation like this will strike back against predatory pricing and help ordinary people live their lives.”

“Today, Connecticut is one step closer to having the strongest insulin cap in the country,” said Sen. Lesser. “Insulin isn’t optional, this bill will save lives. I’m grateful to the support from our Committee members and look forward to carrying Senate Bill 1 forward in the Senate.”

“Today’s vote gets us one step closer to making sure that no one in Connecticut ever has to worry about being able to afford the insulin they need to survive again,” said Rep. Scanlon. “Whether it’s a senior rationing their insulin because they can’t afford it or the young man who said he pays more for insulin each year than on his tuition to one of our state universities, it’s clear from what we’ve heard that we need to act and I’m glad we are.”

This timely proposed legislation comes as excessive insulin costs are severely impacting Connecticut’s diabetes patients. According to Health Care Cost Institute, the cost of insulin nearly tripled between 2002 and 2013, then doubled from that from 2012 to 2016. According to the AARP, “Americans with diabetes, the majority of whom are older adults, face insulin prices that average more than $5,000 per year.” Diabetes is the seventh-leading cause of death in Connecticut. This proposed legislation will save lives in Connecticut, ensuring the 11.4 percent of state’s population with diabetes, and 36.5 percent with prediabetes, can afford Insulin without having to adopt the unsafe practice of rationing their medicine.

Across the country, state governments are grappling with bringing down insulin costs. According to the AARP, last year Colorado passed legislation to cap out-of-pocket cost for insulin at $100 for a 30-day supply. According to a CNN report, Virginia’s House of Delegates passed legislation preventing insurance companies from charging co-pays over $30 for a 30-day insulin supply, Tennessee lawmakers introduced a bill to ensure patients do not have to pay over $100 for a 30-day supply of the drug and Illinois passed a bill capping Insulin costs as well.

Lowering the Cost of Prescription Drugs

The legislation, House Bill (HB) 5366, had a public hearing and will be voted on in committee at a date to be determined.

According to the bill’s proposed language, HB 5366 will accomplish the following to enable Connecticut residents to afford life-saving, essential prescription drugs:

  • Cap aggregate monthly cost-sharing for prescription drugs covered under certain individual and group health insurance policies at $250.
  • Cap the cost of generic drugs in this state.
  • Require the Commissioner of Consumer Protection to submit a request to the federal Secretary of Health and Human Services to implement a Canadian prescription drug reimportation program in this state and, if the secretary approves such request, implement such program in this state.
  • Require pharmaceutical manufacturers to send notice to the Insurance Commissioner regarding “pay-for-delay” agreements, and require health carriers and pharmacy benefits managers to reduce the cost of brand name prescription drugs that are the subject of such agreements. Establish a Critical Drug Shortage Review Board.
  • Limit the circumstances in which a health carrier may remove a prescription drug from a drug formulary or list of covered drugs, or move a prescription drug to a different cost-sharing tier, during a plan year.

This legislation is also incredibly timely as according to the AARP RX Price Watch, retail prices for widely used prescription drugs increased, on average, between 2006 and 2018. In 2018, retail prices for 267 brand name prescription drugs widely used by older adults increased by an average of 5.8 percent. In contrast, the general inflation rate was 2.4 percent over the same period.

According to a September report from the AARP Public Policy Institute, “retail prices for a combined set of 754 widely used brand name, generic, and specialty prescription drugs increased by an average of 4.2% in 2017, well above the general inflation rate of 2.1% for the same period.” They add, “this marked the 12th year in a row of often substantial drug price increases.”

Looney and Duff Applaud Committee Passage of Bill to Cap Insulin Costs at $50

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Looney and Duff Applaud Committee Passage of Bill to Cap Insulin Costs at $50

HARTFORD – Today, Senate President Pro Tempore Martin M. Looney (D-New Haven) and Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk) applauded passage by the Insurance and Real Estate Committee of Senate Bill 1 to cap the cost of insulin prescriptions at $50, the lowest cap in the country. The legislation passed in a bipartisan vote and will now move to the state Senate for a vote.

“Too many Americans are faced with the heartbreaking decision of choosing whether to put food on the table or to pay for their insulin,” said Senate President Martin Looney (D-New Haven). “This is unacceptable and that’s why Senate Bill 1, which will cap the cost of insulin at $50 a month, is a priority for the Senate Democratic Caucus. No one should have to choose between receiving the medication he or she needs to survive or causing grave harm by taking less than the prescribed daily dose.”

“According to the AARP, Americans with diabetes face insulin prices that average more than $5,000 per year,” said Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk). “The rising cost of medicines like insulin is an issue that patients across the country are facing and here in Connecticut we decided to make it a Senate Democratic Caucus priority for this legislative session. Patients should not have to struggle to afford their medications and by passing this bill, we hope to reduce the that burden on residents across Connecticut.”

The bill, SB 1, contains several provisions to help diabetes patients and their families afford insulin. They include:

  • Capping insulin costs including for all insulin and diabetes supplies at $150/month total. This would be the toughest cap in the country.

    • – Insulin is $50 per 30 day.
    – Non-insulin drugs (glucose) is $50 per 30 day.
    – Devices/equipment is $100 per 30 day.
    – Insulin + devices is $100 per month.

  • Insurance companies must cover the cost of emergency insulin up to 3 times a year for their policyholders and everyone will have access to emergency insulin if they go to a pharmacist.

Bill language was released in February following an announcement of the bill by the state Senate Democratic Caucus in January. This proposal is priority number one for Senate Democrats for the 2020 legislative session. It is also priority No. 1 for the thousands of Connecticut residents suffering from diabetes, struggling to afford life-saving insulin due to outrageously high prices.

This timely proposed legislation comes as excessive Insulin costs are severely impacting Connecticut’s diabetes patients. According to Health Care Cost Institute, the cost of insulin nearly tripled between 2002 and 2013, then doubled from that from 2012 to 2016. According to the AARP, “Americans with diabetes, the majority of whom are older adults, face insulin prices that average more than $5,000 per year.” Diabetes is the seventh-leading cause of death in Connecticut. This proposed legislation will save lives in Connecticut, ensuring the 11.4 percent of state’s population with diabetes, and 36.5 percent with prediabetes, can afford Insulin without having to adopt the unsafe practice of rationing their medicine.

Across the country, state governments are grappling with bringing down insulin costs. According to the AARP, last year Colorado passed legislation to cap out-of-pocket cost for insulin at $100 for a 30-day supply. According to a CNN report, Virginia’s House of Delegates passed legislation preventing insurance companies from charging co-pays over $30 for a 30-day insulin supply, Tennessee lawmakers introduced a bill to ensure patients do not have to pay over $100 for a 30-day supply of the drug and Illinois passed a bill capping Insulin costs as well.

Looney and Duff Applaud Committee Passage of Bill to Cap Insulin Costs at $50

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Looney and Duff Applaud Committee Passage of Bill to Cap Insulin Costs at $50

HARTFORD – Today, Senate President Pro Tempore Martin M. Looney (D-New Haven) and Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk) applauded passage by the Insurance and Real Estate Committee of Senate Bill 1 to cap the cost of insulin prescriptions at $50, the lowest cap in the country. The legislation passed in a bipartisan vote and will now move to the state Senate for a vote.

“Too many Americans are faced with the heartbreaking decision of choosing whether to put food on the table or to pay for their insulin,” said Senate President Martin Looney (D-New Haven). “This is unacceptable and that’s why Senate Bill 1, which will cap the cost of insulin at $50 a month, is a priority for the Senate Democratic Caucus. No one should have to choose between receiving the medication he or she needs to survive or causing grave harm by taking less than the prescribed daily dose.”

“According to the AARP, Americans with diabetes face insulin prices that average more than $5,000 per year,” said Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk). “The rising cost of medicines like insulin is an issue that patients across the country are facing and here in Connecticut we decided to make it a Senate Democratic Caucus priority for this legislative session. Patients should not have to struggle to afford their medications and by passing this bill, we hope to reduce the that burden on residents across Connecticut.”

The bill, SB 1, contains several provisions to help diabetes patients and their families afford insulin. They include:

  • Capping insulin costs including for all insulin and diabetes supplies at $150/month total. This would be the toughest cap in the country.

    • – Insulin is $50 per 30 day.
    – Non-insulin drugs (glucose) is $50 per 30 day.
    – Devices/equipment is $100 per 30 day.
    – Insulin + devices is $100 per month.

  • Insurance companies must cover the cost of emergency insulin up to 3 times a year for their policyholders and everyone will have access to emergency insulin if they go to a pharmacist.

Bill language was released in February following an announcement of the bill by the state Senate Democratic Caucus in January. This proposal is priority number one for Senate Democrats for the 2020 legislative session. It is also priority No. 1 for the thousands of Connecticut residents suffering from diabetes, struggling to afford life-saving insulin due to outrageously high prices.

This timely proposed legislation comes as excessive Insulin costs are severely impacting Connecticut’s diabetes patients. According to Health Care Cost Institute, the cost of insulin nearly tripled between 2002 and 2013, then doubled from that from 2012 to 2016. According to the AARP, “Americans with diabetes, the majority of whom are older adults, face insulin prices that average more than $5,000 per year.” Diabetes is the seventh-leading cause of death in Connecticut. This proposed legislation will save lives in Connecticut, ensuring the 11.4 percent of state’s population with diabetes, and 36.5 percent with prediabetes, can afford Insulin without having to adopt the unsafe practice of rationing their medicine.

Across the country, state governments are grappling with bringing down insulin costs. According to the AARP, last year Colorado passed legislation to cap out-of-pocket cost for insulin at $100 for a 30-day supply. According to a CNN report, Virginia’s House of Delegates passed legislation preventing insurance companies from charging co-pays over $30 for a 30-day insulin supply, Tennessee lawmakers introduced a bill to ensure patients do not have to pay over $100 for a 30-day supply of the drug and Illinois passed a bill capping Insulin costs as well.

Senator Anwar Votes For Passage of Bill in Committee to Cap Insulin Costs at $50; Public Hearing on Bill to Lower the Price of Prescription Drugs

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Senator Anwar Votes For Passage of Bill in Committee to Cap Insulin Costs at $50; Public Hearing on Bill to Lower the Price of Prescription Drugs

HARTFORD, CT – Today, State Senator Saud Anwar (D-South Windsor), a member of the Insurance & Real Estate Committee, joined colleagues State Senator Matt Lesser (D-Middletown) and State Representative Sean Scanlon (D-Guilford), committee co-chairs, as they voted to pass a proposed bill to cap the cost of insulin prescriptions at $50, the lowest cap in the country. The legislators also held a public hearing on legislation to bring down the cost of prescription drugs. The insulin legislation, Senate Bill (SB) 1, passed in a bipartisan 17-1 tally. The bill will now move to the state Senate for a vote.

Capping Insulin Prescriptions at $50

The bill, SB 1, contains several provisions to help diabetes patients and their families afford insulin.
They include:

Capping insulin costs including for all insulin and diabetes supplies at $150/month. This would be the toughest cap in the country.

  • Insulin is $50 per 30 day.
  • Non-insulin drugs (glucose) is $50 per 30 day.
  • Devices/equipment is $100 per 30 day.
  • Insulin + devices is $100 per month.

Allowing patients to go to a pharmacist up to three times a year on an emergency basis to get insulin filled without a prescription. Insurance must cover the cost up to 3 times a year for their policyholders. Everyone would have access to emergency insulin if they go to a pharmacist.

Bill language was released in February following an announcement of the bill by state Senate Democratic Caucus in January. This proposal is priority number one for Senate Democrats for the 2020 legislative session. It is also priority No. 1 for the thousands of Connecticut residents suffering from diabetes, struggling to afford life-saving insulin due to outrageously high prices.

“No one should have to ration a life-saving drug, or choose between medical bills and rent,” said Sen. Anwar. “The high cost of this lifesaving drug is putting far too many in harm’s way. I look forward to voting to approve this legislation on the Senate floor. It will save and improve thousands of lives.”

“Today, Connecticut is one step closer to having the strongest insulin cap in the country,” said Sen. Lesser. “Insulin isn’t optional, this bill will save lives. I’m grateful to the support from our Committee members and look forward to carrying Senate Bill 1 forward in the Senate.”
“Today’s vote gets us one step closer to making sure that no one in Connecticut ever has to worry about being able to afford the insulin they need to survive again,” said Rep. Scanlon. “Whether it’s a senior rationing their insulin because they can’t afford it or the young man who said he pays more for insulin each year than on his tuition to one of our state universities, it’s clear from what we’ve heard that we need to act and I’m glad we are.”

This timely proposed legislation comes as excessive insulin costs are severely impacting Connecticut’s diabetes patients. According to Health Care Cost Institute, the cost of insulin nearly tripled between 2002 and 2013, then doubled from that from 2012 to 2016. According to the AARP, “Americans with diabetes, the majority of whom are older adults, face insulin prices that average more than $5,000 per year.” Diabetes is the seventh-leading cause of death in Connecticut. This proposed legislation will save lives in Connecticut, ensuring the 11.4 percent of state’s population with diabetes, and 36.5 percent with prediabetes, can afford Insulin without having to adopt the unsafe practice of rationing their medicine.

Across the country, state governments are grappling with bringing down insulin costs. According to the AARP, last year Colorado passed legislation to cap out-of-pocket cost for insulin at $100 for a 30-day supply. According to a CNN report, Virginia’s House of Delegates passed legislation preventing insurance companies from charging co-pays over $30 for a 30-day insulin supply, Tennessee lawmakers introduced a bill to ensure patients do not have to pay over $100 for a 30-day supply of the drug and Illinois passed a bill capping Insulin costs as well.

Lowering the Cost of Prescription Drugs

The legislation, House Bill (HB) 5366, had a public hearing and will be voted on in committee at a date to be determined.

According to the bill’s proposed language, HB 5366 will accomplish the following to enable Connecticut residents to afford life-saving, essential prescription drugs:

  • Cap aggregate monthly cost-sharing for prescription drugs covered under certain individual and group health insurance policies at $250.
  • Cap the cost of generic drugs in this state.
  • Require the Commissioner of Consumer Protection to submit a request to the federal Secretary of Health and Human Services to implement a Canadian prescription drug reimportation program in this state and, if the secretary approves such request, implement such program in this state.
  • Require pharmaceutical manufacturers to send notice to the Insurance Commissioner regarding “pay-for-delay” agreements, and require health carriers and pharmacy benefits managers to reduce the cost of brand name prescription drugs that are the subject of such agreements. Establish a Critical Drug Shortage Review Board.
  • Limit the circumstances in which a health carrier may remove a prescription drug from a drug formulary or list of covered drugs, or move a prescription drug to a different cost-sharing tier, during a plan year.

This legislation is also incredibly timely as according to the AARP RX Price Watch, retail prices for widely used prescription drugs increased, on average, between 2006 and 2018. In 2018, retail prices for 267 brand name prescription drugs widely used by older adults increased by an average of 5.8 percent. In contrast, the general inflation rate was 2.4 percent over the same period.

According to a September report from the AARP Public Policy Institute, “retail prices for a combined set of 754 widely used brand name, generic, and specialty prescription drugs increased by an average of 4.2% in 2017, well above the general inflation rate of 2.1% for the same period.” They add, “this marked the 12th year in a row of often substantial drug price increases.”

 

Senators Vote For Passage of Bill in Committee to Cap Insulin Costs at $50; Public Hearing on Bill to Lower the Price of Prescription Drugs

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Senator Anwar Votes For Passage of Bill in Committee to Cap Insulin Costs at $50; Public Hearing on Bill to Lower the Price of Prescription Drugs

HARTFORD, CT – Today, State Senator Saud Anwar (D-South Windsor), a member of the Insurance & Real Estate Committee, joined colleagues State Senator Matt Lesser (D-Middletown) and State Representative Sean Scanlon (D-Guilford), committee co-chairs, as they voted to pass a proposed bill to cap the cost of insulin prescriptions at $50, the lowest cap in the country. The legislators also held a public hearing on legislation to bring down the cost of prescription drugs. The insulin legislation, Senate Bill (SB) 1, passed in a bipartisan 17-1 tally. The bill will now move to the state Senate for a vote.

Capping Insulin Prescriptions at $50

The bill, SB 1, contains several provisions to help diabetes patients and their families afford insulin.
They include:

Capping insulin costs including for all insulin and diabetes supplies at $150/month. This would be the toughest cap in the country.

  • Insulin is $50 per 30 day.
  • Non-insulin drugs (glucose) is $50 per 30 day.
  • Devices/equipment is $100 per 30 day.
  • Insulin + devices is $100 per month.

Allowing patients to go to a pharmacist up to three times a year on an emergency basis to get insulin filled without a prescription. Insurance must cover the cost up to 3 times a year for their policyholders. Everyone would have access to emergency insulin if they go to a pharmacist.

Bill language was released in February following an announcement of the bill by state Senate Democratic Caucus in January. This proposal is priority number one for Senate Democrats for the 2020 legislative session. It is also priority No. 1 for the thousands of Connecticut residents suffering from diabetes, struggling to afford life-saving insulin due to outrageously high prices.

“No one should have to ration a life-saving drug, or choose between medical bills and rent,” said Sen. Anwar. “The high cost of this lifesaving drug is putting far too many in harm’s way. I look forward to voting to approve this legislation on the Senate floor. It will save and improve thousands of lives.”

“Today, Connecticut is one step closer to having the strongest insulin cap in the country,” said Sen. Lesser. “Insulin isn’t optional, this bill will save lives. I’m grateful to the support from our Committee members and look forward to carrying Senate Bill 1 forward in the Senate.”
“Today’s vote gets us one step closer to making sure that no one in Connecticut ever has to worry about being able to afford the insulin they need to survive again,” said Rep. Scanlon. “Whether it’s a senior rationing their insulin because they can’t afford it or the young man who said he pays more for insulin each year than on his tuition to one of our state universities, it’s clear from what we’ve heard that we need to act and I’m glad we are.”

This timely proposed legislation comes as excessive insulin costs are severely impacting Connecticut’s diabetes patients. According to Health Care Cost Institute, the cost of insulin nearly tripled between 2002 and 2013, then doubled from that from 2012 to 2016. According to the AARP, “Americans with diabetes, the majority of whom are older adults, face insulin prices that average more than $5,000 per year.” Diabetes is the seventh-leading cause of death in Connecticut. This proposed legislation will save lives in Connecticut, ensuring the 11.4 percent of state’s population with diabetes, and 36.5 percent with prediabetes, can afford Insulin without having to adopt the unsafe practice of rationing their medicine.

Across the country, state governments are grappling with bringing down insulin costs. According to the AARP, last year Colorado passed legislation to cap out-of-pocket cost for insulin at $100 for a 30-day supply. According to a CNN report, Virginia’s House of Delegates passed legislation preventing insurance companies from charging co-pays over $30 for a 30-day insulin supply, Tennessee lawmakers introduced a bill to ensure patients do not have to pay over $100 for a 30-day supply of the drug and Illinois passed a bill capping Insulin costs as well.

Lowering the Cost of Prescription Drugs

The legislation, House Bill (HB) 5366, had a public hearing and will be voted on in committee at a date to be determined.

According to the bill’s proposed language, HB 5366 will accomplish the following to enable Connecticut residents to afford life-saving, essential prescription drugs:

  • Cap aggregate monthly cost-sharing for prescription drugs covered under certain individual and group health insurance policies at $250.
  • Cap the cost of generic drugs in this state.
  • Require the Commissioner of Consumer Protection to submit a request to the federal Secretary of Health and Human Services to implement a Canadian prescription drug reimportation program in this state and, if the secretary approves such request, implement such program in this state.
  • Require pharmaceutical manufacturers to send notice to the Insurance Commissioner regarding “pay-for-delay” agreements, and require health carriers and pharmacy benefits managers to reduce the cost of brand name prescription drugs that are the subject of such agreements. Establish a Critical Drug Shortage Review Board.
  • Limit the circumstances in which a health carrier may remove a prescription drug from a drug formulary or list of covered drugs, or move a prescription drug to a different cost-sharing tier, during a plan year.

This legislation is also incredibly timely as according to the AARP RX Price Watch, retail prices for widely used prescription drugs increased, on average, between 2006 and 2018. In 2018, retail prices for 267 brand name prescription drugs widely used by older adults increased by an average of 5.8 percent. In contrast, the general inflation rate was 2.4 percent over the same period.

According to a September report from the AARP Public Policy Institute, “retail prices for a combined set of 754 widely used brand name, generic, and specialty prescription drugs increased by an average of 4.2% in 2017, well above the general inflation rate of 2.1% for the same period.” They add, “this marked the 12th year in a row of often substantial drug price increases.”