Stauber introduces amendment to reduce consumers’ insulin costs

U.S. Rep. Pete Stauber (R-MN) on Dec. 10 introduced an amendment that would reduce insulin costs under Medicare Part D.

“As more and more individuals across the nation die from rationing insulin, I believe members of Congress have a moral responsibility to act,” Rep. Stauber said on Tuesday. “My amendment will directly reduce the cost of this life-saving drug and I strongly urge my colleagues to support it.”

Rep. Stauber introduced the amendment to the U.S. House Rules Committee to modify the Elijah E. Cummings Lower Drug Costs Now Act, H.R. 3.

Rep. Stauber’s amendment to H.R. 3 includes a requirement to provide 100 percent of certain negotiated price concessions for insulin at the point-of-sale for plan years beginning on or after Jan. 1, 2022, according to the text of the amendment.

By having rebates go directly to consumers rather than the middlemen, the cost of insulin could be reduced by up to 75 percent, according to information provided by the congressman’s office.

“Too often, I hear from Minnesotans who are struggling to cover the rising cost of insulin, which can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars a month,” said Rep. Stauber. “These high costs often force families and seniors to make the difficult choice between buying this critical medication or putting food on the table.”