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Senate approves insurer parity for certain non‑opioid pain drugs after debate on costs
Summary
Senators passed Senate Bill 6 requiring insurers to cover certain new non‑opioid pain treatments. Supporters framed the bill as an outlet from the opioid crisis; opponents warned the mandate increases costs and noted carve‑outs for Medicaid and the state health plan.
The Colorado Senate voted to approve Senate Bill 6, a measure that requires insurers to offer coverage for specified non‑opioid pain‑management drugs when an opioid is prescribed. The bill passed after floor debate, with the clerk reporting 29 ayes and 5 no votes.
Senator Mullica spoke in opposition, saying she agreed with the bill’s goals but objected to mandating coverage for new, potentially expensive drugs. "This bill is requiring and mandating that we only use an option that is brand new to the system, that is more expensive," Mullica said, and noted that Medicaid and the state health plan were carved out in amendments because of cost concerns. (Senator Mullica)
Senator Weisman, a supporter who said he serves on the health committee, framed his vote in the context of the long‑running opioid crisis. "The human disaster that has been inflicted on this country for decades due to rampant over prescription of opioid drugs ... is what is doing the work for me and inclining me to vote yes," Weisman said. (Senator Weisman)
Senator Basin also urged support, arguing the bill corrects insurance practices that can obstruct provider decisions and noted insurers have "stepped in far too often and overriding what the provider's decisions are." (Senator Basin)
The Senate adopted the bill on final passage after debate and recorded the roll and no‑votes as taken in the chamber during the final call.
