Costa Howard-Backed Initiative to Cap Insulin Costs Heads to Governor’s Desk

GLEN ELLYN – To protect the health and lives of Illinois diabetics, state Rep. Terra Costa Howard, D-Glen Ellyn, recently passed legislation to cap the monthly co-payment that patients can be charged for insulin.

“In recent years, pharmaceutical companies have inflicted enormous, unconscionable price increases on people who need insulin to control their diabetes,” Costa Howard said. “Some people are being charged hundreds of dollars a month in co-pays. As a result, many Americans with diabetes have been forced to ration their insulin use, even though skimping on insulin can be fatal. With this legislation, our state government is stepping in to make sure people have affordable access to the insulin they need.”

Costa Howard’s Senate Bill 667, which passed with overwhelming support, puts a $100 cap on co-pays for insulin. The measure now heads to the governor’s desk to be signed into law.

“We can’t stand by while these big drug companies drive up their profit margins by exploiting people with life-threatening illnesses,” continued Costa Howard. “I believe we all have a fundamental right to high-quality, affordable healthcare, and I am going to keep on fighting to protect the health and well-being of everyone who lives in Illinois.”