The Illinois Senate has made significant progress in addressing the financial challenges faced by individuals in need of prescription inhalers. Today, the Senate passed SB3203, a bill sponsored by Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago), that aims to cap the monthly cost of a single prescription inhaler, including rescue and controller inhalers, at $25.
In response to the passing of the bill, Kristina Hamilton, Illinois Director of Advocacy for the American Lung Association, expressed her support by stating, “We applaud the Illinois Senate for passing SB3203 to help reduce the financial burden of rising inhaler costs.”
Hamilton highlighted the importance of this legislation in reducing health disparities, particularly for individuals with chronic lung diseases. She emphasized the significance of affordable inhalers in promoting adherence to medication, which can ultimately lead to a decrease in breathing difficulties, asthma attacks, emergency department visits, and fatalities.
The article also noted the concerning statistics related to asthma costs and accessibility, stating that nationwide, individuals with asthma face significant financial burdens, with many struggling to afford their prescription medications. The disparity in asthma-related deaths between Black and white individuals in Illinois was also highlighted, with Black individuals experiencing a death rate 5 1/2 times greater than their white counterparts.
The bill, which will now move to the Illinois House of Representatives for consideration, aims to make prescription inhalers more affordable and accessible for Illinois residents. If passed and signed into law, the measure is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, and will apply to health insurance plans under the Illinois Insurance Code.
