CHAMPAIGN – State Senator Scott Bennett (D-Champaign) joined cancer survivors, caregivers and advocates at a virtual town hall Wednesday to discuss the need to limit co-pays and other cost-sharing requirements for prescription drugs.

Out-of-pocket health care costs are on the rise, with some Illinoisans unable to access the life-saving treatments and medications recommended by their providers. In 2021 alone, the American Cancer Society predicts that 74,980 Illinoisans will be diagnosed with cancer. Every Illinoisan with cancer—even those with good insurance plans—will face high out-of-pocket costs that make it harder for patients to afford their prescribed medication.

“Rising prescription drug prices leave people with the choice between filling life-saving prescriptions and paying rent, buying food, and affording other critical essentials,” Bennett said. “I am aware of the growing difficulty Illinoisans are encountering regarding prescription drug prices, and we are committed to addressing this health care issue.”

Last week, Bennett introduced legislation that will limit a patient’s monthly out-of-pocket costs for prescriptions, making expenses more predictable and preventing patients from having to worry about going to their local pharmacy and being shocked by their monthly prescription costs.

Senate Bill 275 is assigned to the Senate Insurance Committee.