Rep. Benton Files Bill to Reduce Prescription Drug Costs in Illinois

PLAINFIELD, Ill. — In an effort to decrease prescription drug costs and expand access to lifesaving medications, Rep. Harry Benton, D-Plainfield, has filed a bill requiring insurance companies to pass along rebate savings to patients.

“Too often, high prices make it hard for working families to afford their prescriptions,” Benton said. “My bill aims to reduce the cost of prescription drugs, making quality healthcare more affordable and accessible for Illinois families. It reflects my commitment to putting working families first and prioritizes people’s health rather than profits.”

Benton filed House Bill 5865, which would require insurers to apply any rebate amount they receive to the shared cost of prescription drugs between an individual and insurer. Any rebate that is greater than the defined shared cost amount will be applied to an individuals’ premium, reducing insurance premiums as well. The bill requires the price of a prescription drug to be determined at the point of sale after at least 100% of all rebates received by the insurer have been applied to the price.

“We’ve all seen how the cost of living in Illinois has increased at a rapid pace over the past few years, much the same as has happened across the country.” Benton said. “We’re working hard to increase the affordability of living in Illinois and driving value to working families. Because when we support working families, we help keep moving Illinois forward.”