Breakthrough T1D, the leading global type 1 diabetes (T1D) research and advocacy organization, applauds the U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) for voting to approve and report the INSULIN Act out of committee. We are especially grateful to Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Susan Collins (R-ME), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), John Kennedy (R-LA), and Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) for championing this legislation. Since this bill was re-introduced in the spring, our grassroots advocates have sent over 28,000 emails to their senators. That grassroots effort is reflected in today’s win.
“Insulin isn’t a choice if you live with type 1 diabetes,” said Lynn Starr, Breakthrough T1D Chief Global Advocacy Officer. “It’s what keeps us alive. Living with this disease is consuming enough on its own. No one should also have to worry about whether they can afford something so essential to their survival. Today’s HELP Committee vote is a major victory, one this community has fought hard to win.
“Thank you to the Senators that have championed this fight – Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Susan Collins (R-ME), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), John Kennedy (R-LA) and Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) – and all those who voiced their support for this legislation. Now we turn to the full Senate and urge leadership to do their part by taking up the INSULIN Act this year.”
The INSULIN Act will:
- Cap monthly out-of-pocket costs for insulin for most health plans.
- Launch a pilot program in 10 states to provide uninsured individuals with insulin for $35 per month.
- Establish an insulin resource center and hotline for uninsured individuals to help them secure insulin.
Breakthrough T1D and the T1D community have been advocating for insulin affordability for years, engaging with Congress, employers, health insurance companies, and drug manufacturers. While the organization continues to drive toward cures for T1D, it is also working to make everyday life better for those with the condition. Breakthrough T1D looks forward to continuing to work with lawmakers to advance, and ultimately pass, the INSULIN Act.
