SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — A bill heading to Gov. JB Pritzker's desk will cap the monthly cost of prescription inhalers at $25 for people with health insurance.
Many Illinoisans who struggle with asthma and other lung diseases currently pay between $180 to $300 per month for rescue and controller inhalers.
The plan would also prohibit health insurance companies from denying or limiting coverage for prescription inhalers starting January 1, 2026.
"Last year, 5,541 children alone had to go to the ER for asthma attacks, which cost on average per visit to the ER $1,548, which was over $8 million last year," said Rep. Laura Faver Dias (D-Grayslake). "When people have access to affordable medication, trips to the ER are reduced."
Senate Bill 3203 passed out of the House on a 87-21 vote. The legislation previously passed out of the Senate on a 53-2 vote.
"No one should struggle to afford their medication while big companies profit," said Sen. Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago). "While insurance plans cover a portion of asthma treatment costs, we can do more to eliminate the barriers individuals face when trying to manage this long-term condition."
Kristina Hamilton, Illinois Advocacy Director for the American Lung Association, told WAND News that people with chronic lung disease often need two to three inhalers. Hamilton stressed that adherence to prescription inhaler medication can lead to less risks of breathing difficulties, asthma attacks, emergency department visits and fatalities.
"The death rate for Black people with asthma is 5 1/2 times greater than for white people in Illinois," Hamilton said. "These deaths are largely preventable. This law will help ensure that these life-saving medications are more affordable and accessible for Illinois residents."
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