State Representative Kim Williams’ House Bill 95 would require insurance plans in Delaware provide coverage for epinephrine autoinjectors for those 18 years old or younger.
Epinephrine is the only drug that can combat the effects of anaphylaxis, a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction and an auto-injector is a device that allows a premeasured dose of epinephrine to be self administered quickly. The devices are expensive and can cost a family hundreds or thousands of dollars each year. The epinephrine helps open up the airways and reduce swelling.
In 2009, a pair of EpiPen injectors went for $100, but by 2016, the price had jumped to $600. The ensuing outrage from parents and patients prompted federal lawmakers to look into the pricing policies of Mylan, which produces the EpiPen.
| House Bill 95 Sponsors | Yes Votes | No Votes |
| K.Williams, Bennett, Baumbach, Bentz, Briggs King, Dorsey Walker, Griffith, Heffernan, K.Johnson, Kowalko, Lambert, Lynn, Matthews, Minor-Brown, Osienski, Ramone, M.Smith | ||
| Walsh, S.McBride, Hansen, Paradee, Pinkney, Sokola, Pettyjohn | ||
| Current Status — House Economic Everything Committee 1/28/21 |
Ruth Briggs-King is a Republican. This is a good bill. However it only covers plans within state jurisdiction. Those with insurance policies issued through out-of-state employers, including this on Federal plans, and thos whose employers are self-insured, are not covered. A congressional act is needed.
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