Subcommittee backs Del. Delaney’s bill to cut insulin and diabetes supply cost‑sharing to $35

Del. Don Scott Delaney (presenting as Del. Delaney) told the subcommittee HB 1214 would lower the Commonwealth’s existing $50 per‑30‑day insulin cap to $35 and apply a $35 aggregate cap per 30‑day supply for diabetes equipment and supplies, including test strips, pumps and continuous glucose monitors. "This bill will lower Virginia's $50 cap for insulin to a $35 cap in aggregate per 30 day supply," Delaney said, noting the change is intended to reduce financial strain on people managing diabetes.

Committee members asked who would absorb the cost reduction. Delaney and witnesses said the effect depends on benefit design and supply‑chain factors. Monica Bilger, state government affairs director for the American Diabetes Association, testified that lowering cost shares improves medication adherence and long‑term outcomes, and cited a survey in which more than half of Virginians with diabetes reported spending over $200 per month on diabetes care. "Addressing affordability by lowering cost shares will allow people with diabetes to better manage their glucose levels," Bilger said.

Other supporters included Freedom Virginia and practicing pharmacists who described how lower out‑of‑pocket costs can prevent interruptions in insulin and supplies. In response to committee concern about premium impacts, witnesses said experience in other states has not shown consistent premium increases tied solely to insulin cost caps; BOI or fiscal analyses specific to Virginia were discussed in committee Q&A.

The subcommittee moved the bill and reported it to appropriations by recorded vote, 9–0.

Next steps: HB 1214 will be carried to appropriations for fiscal review and continued consideration by the General Assembly.