Bipartisan Drug Transparency Bill Headed to Governor’s Desk
Rep. Noble Chief Sponsor of HB 4005
Salem, Ore. – Rep. Ron Noble (R-McMinnville) was a Chief Sponsor of HB 4005, along with Rep. Rob Nosse (D-Portland), Sen. Dennis Linthicum (R-Klamath Falls) and Sen. Lee Beyer (D-Spingfield). This bill is a representation of how reaching across the aisle and working together can begin the process of bringing new transparency to drug pricing in Oregon.
During his Floor speech this week, Noble described his experience as Director of Public Safety at Linfield College, where he saw the cost of EpiPens, which are used for severe allergic reactions, soar “for no apparent reason.” “My constituents, regardless of where they land on the political spectrum, care about the cost of prescription drugs,” he said.
HB 4005 implements essential transparency into how and why manufacturers seek double digit price increases and requires health plans to report on how these prices affect premiums. The bill also focuses on the next level to establish a follow up task force to look at additional points in the distribution chain that affect price increases.
“I’m all for transparency,” said Representative Noble, “and HB 4005 is designed to begin the process to provide transparency and to help us all understand the rising cost of prescription drugs. Sunshine is the best disinfectant, and HB 4005 starts to shine the light on the cost of prescription drug prices, which is needed to make a positive change for Oregonians. I was proud to join Representative Nosse in bringing this bill to the House Floor.”
