House to Hold Hearing on Legislation to Address Skyrocketing Cost of Insulin

SAINT PAUL, MINNESOTA – Tomorrow, March 5, the House Commerce Committee will hear several bills to address the skyrocketing cost of insulin, including the Alec Smith Emergency Insulin Act. The hearing will take place in conjunction with Insulin for All Day at the Minnesota State Capitol, where Minnesotans will share their stories and struggles with access to affordable insulin. Nicole Smith-Holt and James Holt will speak at the rally and testify before the House Commerce committee, sharing the story of their son Alec, who lost his life when we was forced to ration his insulin because he could not afford it.

“In Minnesota, no one should lose their life because they cannot afford the insulin they need to survive,” said Rep. Michael Howard. “I am grateful for the advocacy of Minnesotans across the state who are standing up to Big Pharma and urging leaders at all levels of government to take action. It is time that we listen and move forward with these important bills to make insulin more accessible and affordable for all.”

Insulin for All Rally

When: Tuesday, March 5, 12:00 PM
Where: State Capitol South Steps

House Commerce Committee Hearing

When: Tuesday, March 5, 2:30 PM
Where: Room 120, State Capitol Building (updated 3/5/19, 6:30 PM)
What: Legislation addressing the rising insulin prices
- HF 485 (Howard) The Alec Smith Emergency Insulin Act, establishing an insulin assistance program
- HF 289 (Mann) Cost reporting requirements for diabetes prescription drugs
- HF 288 (Masin) Health plans prohibited from removing insulin coverage
- HF 284 (Halverson) Insulin cost review authorized by Commissioner of Health