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Rep. David Cannon seeks ban on co‑pay accumulator plans after constituent case
Summary
Rep. David Cannon introduced RS 32178 to prohibit co‑pay accumulators that keep third‑party payments from counting toward patients’ co‑pays and out‑of‑pocket maximums; committee voted to introduce the request for statute and refer it for a full hearing.
Representative David Cannon (R., Legislative District 30) told the House Health and Welfare Committee that RS 32178 is meant to address “co‑pay accumulator” practices that can leave patients unexpectedly responsible for large prescription costs. Cannon said the measure grew out of concerns from a constituent family whose child with cystic fibrosis uses costly drugs and had relied on manufacturer coupons and other third‑party assistance.
The bill as described by Cannon would require insurers to apply third‑party payments and coupons for prescription drugs toward patients’ co‑payments and out‑of‑pocket maximums the same as payments made by the patient. Cannon said the current practice can surprise families when assistance programs end and the insurer refuses to credit those payments against required cost sharing.
Representative Fred (Jerry) Fernan moved to introduce RS 32178 so the proposal can receive a full hearing. The committee approved the motion by voice vote; Chair recorded his aye and announced RS 32178 was introduced.
Cannon framed the proposal narrowly: it addresses insurer accounting of third‑party payment assistance for prescription medication and does not create new subsidy programs. He asked the committee to schedule a hearing to allow fuller testimony and technical review.
No detailed statutory citations were offered during the introduction; Representative Cannon said he stands ready to answer questions at a future hearing. The committee’s vote to introduce the RS allows staff and stakeholders to prepare for a formal bill hearing where language details, exceptions, and enforcement mechanisms can be addressed.
RS 32178 will be scheduled for a committee hearing; committee staff will post docket and bill language before that hearing, at which insurers, patient advocates, and other stakeholders can testify.
