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Legislative News and Views - Rep. Alice Mann (DFL)

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DFL House Members Host Community Conversation on Prescription Drug Prices

Monday, September 16, 2019

St. Paul, Minn. - DFL House Members today hosted a town hall in Burnsville focused on addressing the soaring cost of insulin and prescription drugs. Legislators, advocates, and family members of people impacted by the soaring cost of insulin and other prescription drugs spoke about challenges stemming from the high costs of medication and unexpected health problems.

“No Minnesotan should die because their insurance falls short or their paycheck didn’t come in time,” said Rep. Alice Mann (DFL - Lakeville), who hosted the meeting. “We need to hold Big Pharma accountable for raising the prices of prescription drugs to the point where sick peoples' lives are determined by the balance of their bank account.” 

“I’ve seen how Big Pharma’s power can devastate families when they need care,” said Rep. Hunter Cantrell (DFL - Savage). “I’m here today because my parents’ insurance shielded me from what would have been a $500,000 bill when I was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. No Minnesotan’s life should be left to chance.” 

The price of insulin has risen nearly 600% since 2005. The House DFL proposed the Alec Smith Emergency Insulin Act requiring Big Pharma to provide an emergency supply of insulin for people whose lives are in danger. House Speaker Melissa Hortman announced today that legislation will be ready for a hearing by the end of September.

Meetings are also scheduled for Richfield, Saint Cloud, and Shorewood. 

Richfield Community Conversation

WHERE: Richfield City Hall, 6700 Portland Ave, Richfield, 55423

WHEN: Thursday, September 19; 6:30 p.m.

Saint Cloud Community Conversation

WHERE: Great River Regional Library (Array Room), 1300 W Germain St, St Cloud, 56301

WHEN: Saturday, September 21; 10 a.m.

Shorewood Community Conversation

WHERE: Shorewood Community Center, 5735 Country Club Rd, Minnetrista, 55331

WHEN: Monday, September 23; 7:15 p.m.

On Thursday, September 26 at 1 p.m., the Health and Human Services Finance Division will hold a formal public hearing in Room 200 of the State Office Building to share stories and ideas from the Community Conversations.

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