Shackleford’s bill to address effect drug prices have on the ability of Hoosiers to afford treatment heads to governor

INDIANAPOLIS – Legislation authored by Representative Robin Shackleford (D-Indianapolis) that would study ways to reduce the rising cost of prescription drugs is heading to Governor Eric Holcomb’s desk to be signed into law.

By a 48-0 vote, the Indiana Senate approved House Bill 1029, which would enable the Interim Study Committee on Public Health, Behavioral Health and Human Services to study prescription drug transparency, particularly the effect drug prices have on the ability of Hoosiers to afford treatment.

“Our ultimate goal here is to find ways to make all prescription drugs more affordable for Hoosiers,” Shackleford said. “The first logical step is to understand why drug prices are so high in the first place. There is a willingness from all parties involved here to find some answers, and that will be a critical part of what we study, hopefully as soon as this summer.”

Participants in the study would include manufacturers, wholesale distributors, pharmacies, health insurers, and pharmacy benefit managers.

“It is critical that we involve citizens across the state, because they are the ones who can teach us about the unique challenges everyday people face with high drug prices,” Shackleford said. “I was inspired to introduce this bill after talking with constituents who suffer from Type 1 diabetes, and are unable to afford the insulin needed to treat their disease. One in four people with diabetes who are dependent on insulin are forced to ration the medication and take less than they need because they are unable to afford it. That is unacceptable.

“Research shows that a vial of insulin can be manufactured for $5, but is commonly sold for $300,” she continued. “That’s a huge disparity and Hoosiers deserve answers.”

Shackleford has pursued the study of drug prices since 2018. Her efforts gained momentum this year due to strong public support, including a petition signed by more than 800 people asking that HB 1029 be heard.

House Bill 1029 will become law once the governor signs it. Topics for the study should be finalized by the Legislative Council in the coming months.

In early February, HB 1029 passed the Indiana House Public Health Committee 11-0 and soon after passed out of the House.

Co-authors of the bill are State Reps. Chris Chyung (D-Dyer), Steve Davisson (R-Salem), and Cindy Kirchhofer (R-Beech Grove). Sponsors of the bill are State Sens. Jean Breaux (D-Indianapolis), Ed Charbonneau (R-Valparaiso), and John Ruckleshaus (R-Indianapolis).