Scherer Votes to Cap the Cost of Lifesaving Epi-Pens

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Lifesaving epi-pens will be more affordable under legislation passed by state Rep. Sue Scherer, D-Decatur, capping the cost of the allergy treatment at $60 per twin package.

“People with allergies shouldn’t have to worry about the cost of their lifeline,” Scherer said. “Millions of people, myself included, depend on epi-pens in the event of an emergency, and no one should be denied that peace of mind because a big company is more interested in profits than people.”

Scherer sponsored House Bill 3639, which caps the cost of an epinephrine injector. The current price of a twin set epi-pens is between $650 and $700. Because the medication is sold in pairs, it is not possible to buy a single epi-pen. The exorbitant cost of epi-pens creates barriers to residents seeking the life-saving medical devices.

House Bill 3639 passed out of both chambers of the General Assembly and now heads to the governor’s desk for final approval.

“As someone who experienced first-hand the cost of purchasing epi-pens, this legislation moves us in the right direction of breaking down current systemic barriers in the state’s healthcare system,” Scherer said. “Being able to afford healthcare is not a privilege but a right, and I think that this legislation brings us one step closer to that ideal.”