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A March 1 rally for passage of 340B legislation spotlighted three key reasons why House Bill 2371 SA 2 must pass this session:

1. No one should have to decide between paying for groceries or needed medications. Drugmaker restrictions to 340B are making life harder for low-income Illinoisans by limiting the number of pharmacies offering discounted drugs.

2. HB 2371 SA 2 does NOT require state or taxpayer funding. 340B drugmakers must provide discounted outpatient drugs to hospitals and health centers caring for high numbers of low-income patients.

3. With federal Medicaid cuts looming, up to 500,000 Illinoisans could lose health coverage. Illinois hospitals face closure or service line cuts, as one-third operate on negative margins every year.

“Across Illinois, families rely on a network of hospitals and community health centers that are there in their hardest moments. Together they form the safety net that catches patients before a health crisis becomes a life crisis,” State Sen. Mattie Hunter said at the rally.

“I voted in favor of this bill because it protects access to care… Access to affordable care and medications is now more important than ever for working families, seniors and children. At a time when our state faces very tough financial pressures, this is a solution that strengthens care for patients without costing the state a single dollar,” Sen. Hunter said.

The Senate passed the 340B bill unanimously. Now it’s time for the House to vote YES on HB 2371 SA 2! Learn more.