LaPointe-Backed Legislation Capping Insulin Prices Becomes Law

CHICAGO – The cost of insulin will now be capped at $100 per month for Illinois patients under a new law that was supported by state Rep. Lindsey LaPointe, D-Chicago, and signed into law on Friday by Governor JB Pritzker.

“As pharmaceutical companies and drug manufacturers continue to raise the price of prescription drugs all in an effort to increase their profits, real people are struggling to access the medication they desperately need,” LaPointe said. “Patients should never have to ration their insulin supply or go without medication simply because they cannot afford it. We have to do more to make prescription drugs more affordable.”  

LaPointe supported Senate Bill 667 to cap the out-of-pocket cost of prescription insulin co-payments at $100 per month for patients, regardless of the supply they require. Millions of Americans are born with type 1 diabetes and many develop type 2 diabetes as adults, and insulin is critical for survival for these patients. Insulin costs have skyrocketed in recent years, nearly tripling in price over the past decade, forcing individuals to choose between purchasing life-saving medication and paying for other necessities. Gov. Pritzker signed Senate Bill 667 legislation into law on Friday, making Illinois the second state to cap insulin prices. The new law takes effect January 2021.

“Diabetes affects individuals of all socioeconomic statuses and when insurance companies overprice insulin, too many people cannot access their medication,” LaPointe said. “This new law is a step in the right direction to holding pharmaceutical companies accountable, making prescription drugs more affordable and increasing access to live-saving medication that so many Illinoisans depend on.”

For more information about pending legislation or state services, please contact LaPointe’s constituent service office at 773-647-1174 or email RepLaPointe@gmail.com.