Welch-Backed Measure Increasing Access to Affordable Health Care Passes House

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Diabetes patients in Illinois will see relief on the price of their insulin medication thanks to legislation backed by state Rep. Emanuel “Chris” Welch, D-Hillside, which passed the House this week.

“The out-of-control price hikes being pushed by big insurance and big pharmaceutical companies are pricing patients out of receiving lifesaving care,” Welch said. “It’s simply wrong, and this proposal will help provide relief to patients so that they can afford these vital medications.”

Welch backed Senate Bill 667, a new proposal seeking to cap patients’ insulin payments at $100 a month. This bill is addressing the massive spike in insulin prices; between 2002 and 2013, out-of-pocket costs for insulin increased almost 300%. There are 1.3 million adult diabetics in Illinois, many of whom regularly rely on insulin to maintain their health and quality of life. Capping insulin costs for the millions of adult diabetics in Illinois is part of Welch’s broader effort to improve the affordability and accessibility for every resident in Illinois.

“The profits of huge medical corporations should never take priority over the health and well-being of Illinois families,” Welch said. “This reform will level the playing field so Illinoisans that require insulin treatments can afford treatment. I strongly encourage the governor to promptly sign this legislation.”

Senate Bill 667 passed the full House and Senate and awaits final action by the governor.