OKLAHOMA CITY – A bill that would lower insulin costs and improve access to affordable prescription drugs through a new state-run program passed the House floor today with a 77-13 vote. The bill authored by Rep. Eddy Dempsey, R-Valliant, now moves to the Senate for further consideration.

"No one should have to ration their insulin or go without it because of its cost," Dempsey said. "This bill is about ensuring Oklahomans don't have to forgo the medication they need to survive. By fostering competition and partnerships, we can help drive down costs and create a more reliable supply of insulin for those who need it most.”

House Bill 1380 would establish the Insulin Access and Affordability Program within the State Department of Health (OSDH). The program would be designed to increase competition in the marketplace, reduce insulin prices and help address shortages of generic prescription drugs. Under the bill, OSDH would have the authority to enter into agreements with nonprofit pharmaceutical companies and collaborate with nonprofit organizations to support these efforts.

Dempsey, a diabetic himself, has seen firsthand the challenges posed by the high cost of insulin. He also lost a close friend to diabetes—someone he believes this bill could have helped.

“For too many Oklahomans, insulin is either out of reach financially or in short supply,” Dempsey said. “I’ve experienced these struggles myself, and I’ve seen the heartbreaking consequences of a dear friend of mine who lost his life to diabetes. If we can prevent even one more family from enduring the pain of losing a loved one to this disease, then we’ve done something truly meaningful.”

The legislation would authorize OSDH to establish memoranda of understanding or contracts with nonprofit entities to support the production and distribution of insulin—aiming to enhance affordability for Oklahomans while ensuring a stable supply of this critical medication.

HB1380 now advances to the Senate for further consideration. If approved and signed into law, it will take effect on July 1.