North Dakota Enacts Bipartisan Insulin Price Cap for State-Regulated Health Plans
North Dakota has passed legislation to cap insulin copayments for state-regulated health plans, limiting out-of-pocket costs for patients with diabetes. This measure, co-sponsored by Republican State Sen. Sean Cleary, passed with overwhelming bipartisan support despite initial opposition from health insurers and the state chamber of commerce. The cap ensures that patients will not pay more than a set amount per month for insulin, even if they have high deductibles. This move follows a national trend, with Colorado being the first state to enact an insulin copay cap in 2019, limiting charges to $100 for a 30-day supply. The legislation in North Dakota was championed by State Sen. Tim Mathern, a Democrat, who worked to build support across the aisle. The Kritzberger family, whose daughter Nina has Type 1 diabetes, testified in favor of the bill, highlighting the financial burden and anxiety associated with high insulin costs.
