The INSULIN Act of 2026 (H.R. 10227) is a bipartisan bill introduced on September 2, 2026, by Representative Diana DeGette and co-sponsored by Representatives Mariannette Miller-Meeks, Kim Schrier, Robert Bresnahan, and Angela Craig. The bill aims to make insulin more affordable and accessible for Americans. Key provisions include: 1) Requiring health insurance plans to cover at least one insulin product of each type and delivery method without applying a deductible, and capping out-of-pocket costs at $35 per 30-day supply or 25% of the negotiated price, whichever is lower, starting January 1, 2028. 2) Prohibiting prior authorization or other medical management requirements for these insulin products unless necessary for safety. 3) Establishing a federal resource center and 24/7 hotline to assist uninsured individuals in finding affordable insulin and assistance programs. 4) Accelerating the approval process for biosimilar insulin products to increase market competition and reduce prices.
Media coverage has highlighted the INSULIN Act of 2026 as a significant step toward addressing the high cost of insulin in the United States. The bill's provisions to cap out-of-pocket expenses and eliminate deductibles for insulin products are seen as major advancements in making this essential medication more affordable for millions of Americans. The establishment of a federal resource center and hotline for uninsured individuals has been praised for its potential to bridge gaps in access to insulin. Additionally, the expedited approval process for biosimilar insulin products is viewed as a promising measure to foster competition and drive down prices. Overall, the bill is lauded for its comprehensive approach to tackling insulin affordability and accessibility.
Critics of the INSULIN Act of 2026 argue that while the bill addresses out-of-pocket costs for insured individuals, it may not sufficiently tackle the underlying factors contributing to high insulin prices, such as pricing practices by pharmaceutical companies and the complex supply chain. Some media outlets have expressed concerns that the bill's provisions might not lead to substantial reductions in the overall cost of insulin. Additionally, there is skepticism about the effectiveness of the federal resource center and hotline, questioning whether these measures will adequately reach and assist the uninsured population. The expedited approval process for biosimilar insulin products, while intended to increase competition, has also raised questions about the potential impact on safety and efficacy standards. Overall, while the bill is recognized as a step in the right direction, some media coverage suggests it may fall short of delivering comprehensive solutions to the insulin affordability crisis.
The donor data shows contributions primarily from individuals associated with Applied Materials, Inc., a company not directly related to insulin pricing or healthcare. There is no indication of PAC involvement, and the total amount of donations is relatively low, suggesting minimal conflict-of-interest risk.
These industries are both affected by this bill and among the sponsor's top donors.
| Industry | Match Type | Related Subject | Donations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health Professionals (H01) | Sector | Health | $360,000,000 |
| Total from overlapping industries | $360,000,000 | ||
Top industries funding Diana DeGette, ranked by total contributions.
Source: OpenSecrets.org (Center for Responsive Politics)
