Senate committee backs Insulin Access and Affordability Program after questions on funding and pricing

Senate Bill 13 44, introduced by Senator Rosino, would establish an Insulin Access and Affordability Program at the State Department of Health to increase patient access to affordable insulin and promote marketplace competition. The Health and Human Services Committee passed the bill in committee 9‑2.

During committee questioning, Rosino said a nonprofit manufacturer has requested $2,000,000 to help bring a biosimilar insulin product to market and would match any state funding dollar‑for‑dollar. "What they have requested was $2,000,000 that's what it would cost," Rosino said in committee. He added the product "costs approximately $35 to $45 to the wholesaler" and that "the most the pharmacy can charge is $55," noting enforcement would include pulling the product from pharmacies that charge more.

Committee members pressed for details. Senator Pugh asked why the measure directs financial support to a single nonprofit manufacturer rather than any entity producing the product; Rosino said the nonprofit is the organization bringing the biosimilar forward and that they intend to match funds. When asked for the nonprofit's name in open committee, Rosino declined to provide it and offered to share it privately.

Rosino framed the program as addressing a major state need: he said Oklahoma has roughly 390,000 residents with diabetes and that more than 100,000 require insulin. "So it is a big issue in the state of Oklahoma," Rosino said, urging support for the measure.

The committee recorded 9 ayes and 2 nays and declared the bill passed. The measure now moves to further legislative consideration, where appropriations, procurement details and contractual terms with any manufacturer will be subject to additional review and potential amendment.

Reporting details, vendor selection and enforcement mechanisms remain to be specified. The sponsor indicated the nonprofit would match any state contribution, but the committee did not take up procurement language or a named contract in the public record during this session.