SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — A group of faith leaders and patients visited the Capitol on Wednesday to demand that state representatives vote against a proposal to expand the 340B drug pricing program.

The 340B program was created in 1992 to improve access to care at safety net hospitals and clinics, but hospital leaders have said Big Pharma has limited their access to medications. 

Lawmakers could pass a bipartisan plan to stop any person or company from setting restrictions on 340B contracts, but advocates argue the bill would just put more money into the pockets of hospital CEOs.

"Regardless of the fact of who thinks that this should be pushed forward, we the people are speaking up," said Pastor Dr. Randall White with the Healthcare Equity and Affordability Alliance. "We believe that we need more transparency. The hospitals are getting big discounts, but it's not touching the hands of those who need it the most."

Yet, the legislation would require 340Bs to provide annual reports listing costs of drugs taken under the program, the number of drug claims and the impact of the program on their community.

Sponsors said ongoing attacks on the discount drug program threaten patient access and could force providers to cut programs and services.

"During a time when the federal government is cutting funding for healthcare for families across this state, we should be doing everything we can to bring vital resources to support patients and their healthcare providers — resources like 340B that cost nothing to taxpayers or the state of Illinois," said Rep. Anna Moeller (D-Elgin).

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