Press Releases

Congresswoman Gwen Moore Introduces Legislation to Lower Cost of Prescription Drugs for Americans

Today, Congresswoman Moore introduced the More Help for Seniors Act, with Representatives Angie Craig, Joe Morelle, and Marc Veasey, which will expand eligibility criteria for the Medicare Part D low-income subsidy (LIS) program (also called “Extra Help”). This bill raises the income thresholds for eligibility under the LIS program making affordable health care more accessible to low-income Americans by providing assistance with Part D plan premiums and out-of-pocket costs for prescription drugs to more people. In response, Congresswoman Moore released the following statement:

“Big pharma continues to rake in big profits while the cost of prescription drugs are out of control, exacting unacceptable hardship on too many Americans. That’s why I am pleased to join my colleagues in introducing the More Help for Seniors Act, which will expand the Medicare Part D low-income subsidy program to make essential medications more accessible and affordable for more seniors and people with disabilities,” said Representative Moore.

“For too long, pharmaceutical companies have made a fortune on the backs of our nation’s seniors,” said Representative Craig. “As prescription drug costs continue to skyrocket for Minnesotans, I’m proud to introduce the More Help for Seniors Act of 2021 to lower out of pocket costs for our seniors to ensure that folks on fixed incomes can afford the medications they rely on.” 

“Our nation is facing an alarming crisis as the cost of prescription medication continues to rise, placing a dangerous burden on older Americans and their families,” said Representative Morelle. “And as we continue to navigate this global health crisis, it’s more important than ever that we take action to make healthcare more affordable for everyday Americans. I’m proud to co-sponsor this critical legislation to ensure those who rely on Medicare have access to the life-saving medication they need, no matter what.”

“Older Americans in Texas’ 33rd district are being hurt every day by the skyrocketing price of prescription drugs,” said Representative Veasey. “This legislation will meet this challenge by ensuring that beneficiaries of the Medicare Part D program have access to the life-saving prescriptions they need. I am proud to join my colleagues to continue our promise to work for the people by making affordable health care a right for all Americans-especially during an unprecedented pandemic that disproportionately hurting already vulnerable communities.”

The LIS program assists low-income individuals by fully or partially covering their out-of-pocket costs under the Medicare Part D prescription drug program. The subsidies under LIS reduce (partial) or cover (full) Part D premiums, deductibles, and coinsurance, while also eliminating the coverage gap and waiving the penalty for late enrollment.  

You can find the full text of the bill here.