Cap on rising insulin costs could save families from bankruptcy

SPRINGFIELD – Illinoisans with diabetes will pay less for their prescription insulin, thanks to a new law co-sponsored by State Senator Laura Fine (D-Glenview) that seeks to address soaring prescription drug costs.

“The cost of insulin has tripled in the past decade, and wages haven’t followed suit. Prescription drug companies shouldn’t be able to burden families with these sky-high costs,” said Fine, who was the measure’s chief co-sponsor in the Senate. “I’m thrilled to help provide some relief to Illinoisans with diabetes.”

For patients on state-regulated insurance plans, Public Act 101-625 caps the out-of-pocket cost of prescription insulin at $100 for a 30-day supply.

More than 30 million Americans have diabetes, and 7.4 million Americans require prescription insulin every day to survive, according to the American Diabetes Association. However, the price of insulin has risen sharply in recent years, driving many patients to sacrifice other daily needs to pay for insulin or to ration their supply.

The legislation makes Illinois the second state to cap prescription insulin co-payments.

“People with diabetes used to have to choose between paying their bills and paying for insulin,” said Fine. “We’re giving them a little more wiggle room and relieving some of that burden. Hopefully this helps people get their prescription without having to sacrifice other needs.”

Public Act 101-625 was signed into law on Friday and goes into effect Jan. 1, 2021.

Fine to join area lawmakers for town hall meeting tonight

SPRINGFIELD – Residents can connect with State Senator Laura Fine (D-Glenview) and other elected officials at a town hall meeting tonight from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Northbrook Public Library, 1201 Cedar Lane, Northbrook.

“I’m excited to hear from my neighbors and share my legislative agenda with them,” said Fine. “This legislative session is going to be a busy one, and I want to make sure I’m addressing the issues that matter most to my community.”

At the event, local legislators will update the public on their goals for the upcoming legislative session, which begins at the end of the month. They will also answer questions and take suggestions from attendees.

Fine and five other lawmakers are scheduled to attend:
• State Senator Julie Morrison (D-Deerfield)
• State Representative Bob Morgan (D-Deerfield)
• State Representative Jonathan Carroll (D-Northbrook)
• State Representative Jennifer Gong-Gershowitz (D-Glenview)
• State Representative Robyn Gabel (D-Evanston)

The event is free and open to the public, but Fine encourages those who plan to attend to register for the event online.

Fine congratulates new Senate President Don Harmon

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Laura Fine (D-Glenview) extended her congratulations to new Senate President Don Harmon (D-Oak Park):

“I offer my sincere congratulations to Senator Harmon, who has been chosen to serve as President of the Illinois Senate.

“Although I am relatively new to the Senate, I know that Former President Cullerton’s leadership will be missed. Still, I am excited to see Senator Harmon take Illinois and the Senate in a new direction, and I know that his experience as a champion of many progressive causes, like health care reform and enhanced public education, will serve our state well.

“From fighting for environmental justice to ensuring all Illinoisans have access to affordable health care, I look forward to working with Senate President Harmon to enact positive change across our great state.”

More seniors eligible for transportation assistance in 2020

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department on Aging has adjusted its annual income eligibility limits for the Benefit Access Program, allowing more seniors to qualify to receive transportation assistance in 2020.

“This is the first income limit increase since 2010, despite the rising cost of living,” said State Senator Laura Fine (D-Glenview). “It’s been a long time coming, but I’m glad to see that our most vulnerable seniors will now be able to get help with their transportation needs.”

The Benefit Access Program includes the Secretary of State License Plate Discount, the Seniors Ride Free Transit Benefit and the Persons with Disabilities Free Transit Ride. The services aim to help older adults live independently by improving their transportation options.

For applications submitted on or after Jan. 1, 2020, the new annual income limit for a two-person household is $44,533. This is an increase of nearly $8,000 from the previous income limit.

“Taking care of our senior residents is one of my top priorities,” said Fine. “Increasing income eligibility limits extends these important services to those who need them most.”

To determine eligibility, individuals must submit an online Benefit Access Application. Paper applications are not available. Those without access to a computer can contact their local Area Agency on Aging, senior center, public library or community center for assistance.