Oregon, North Dakota, Indiana, and Vermont join 19 other states that have passed copay accumulator bans
Madison, WI — As the national momentum to protect patients from harmful copay accumulator policies continues to grow, the Wisconsin All Copays Count Coalition calls on state lawmakers to act on “Cole’s Act,” Assembly Bill 173 and Senate Bill 203. Since last session, four more states — Oregon, North Dakota, Indiana, and Vermont — have passed legislation banning the use of copay accumulator programs, bringing the total to 23 states plus Puerto Rico that have adopted this critical patient protection. These bills have passed with near unanimous bipartisan support; 2,920 lawmakers voting in support and only 150 against in those 23 states. 95% support!
Copay accumulators, are a predatory practice by PBMs to prevent prescription drug copay assistance from counting toward a patient’s deductible or out-of-pocket maximum, forcing patients — often those with serious or chronic health conditions — to pay significantly more for their medications. These policies disproportionately hurt Wisconsin’s most vulnerable residents, including those managing cancer, HIV, multiple sclerosis, and rare diseases.
“Every month that goes by without action means another month where Wisconsin patients are stuck paying more than they should for the medications they need,” said Rob Gundermann, Executive Director of the Wisconsin All Copays Count Coalition. “The Legislature must act to end this unfair practice and ensure that all payments — regardless of the source — count toward a patient’s out-of-pocket maximum. It’s time for Wisconsin to join the growing number of states that are standing up for patients.”
With bipartisan support driving change across the country, Wisconsin remains one of the few states where insurers and pharmacy benefit managers can continue using copay accumulator programs unchecked. The Coalition urges legislators to prioritize patient protections in the upcoming session and to pass legislation that ensures fairness and financial relief for Wisconsin families.
For more information, please visit: www.wi4patients.com
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