Rep. Robyn Vining Introduces Epi Access Legislation

MADISON – Today, State Representative Robyn Vining (D-Wauwatosa), State Representative Mark Spreitzer (D-Beloit), and State Senator Jeff Smith (D-Eau Claire) introduced the Epi Access bill to make epinephrine more accessible and affordable in Wisconsin. The first part of the bill directs the Department of Health Services to reimburse ambulance providers in Wisconsin for epinephrine, because not every ambulance can stock epinephrine auto-injectors due to cost. The second part of this bill allows pharmacists to substitute a less costly epinephrine product for patients, unless a prescriber indicates otherwise. Rep. Vining released the following statement in regards to this legislation:

“Wisconsinites want their healthcare to be high quality, affordable, and accessible. This is true for all aspects of the healthcare system, and this legislation seeks to accomplish that for those who require epinephrine to survive.

“For people who suffer from severe allergies, access to epinephrine is not a choice — it is a life or death situation. When access to epinephrine is limited by high costs, families are left to choose between their life-saving medication and everyday needs, like groceries. One year, an epinephrine prescription could be $15 and the next year it could be $100, at the same pharmacy with the same health insurance.

“Families should not have to make this impossible choice between necessary health care and other needs. This bill also ensures that the cost of epinephrine autoinjectors or draw-up epinephrine are available to be reimbursed for emergency responders across Wisconsin, hopefully further protecting families in urgent need of epinephrine. This legislation will improve access in our communities and give families more affordable options for epinephrine.”

Rep. Vining represents the 14th Assembly District, which includes parts of Brookfield, Wauwatosa, and Milwaukee. For more information, visit Rep. Vining’s website here. 

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.