A lot has been going on in Washington, DC over the last few months.  The insulin affordability issue continues to remain very active with Congress. Several committees and many champions within the diabetes space all remain active players in this discussion. The various committees and Members continue to consider, and in some cases markup, pieces of legislation aimed at reducing the overall cost of prescription drugs – with a particular focus on insulin. Final legislation has not been made available yet.

The Special Diabetes Program is up for renewal this fall.  The SDP provides $150 million annually for diabetes research.  Currently, HR2328, which includes language to reauthorize the SDP for 4 years at $150 annually has passed the House Energy and Commerce Committee.  Next, both the full House and Senate will consider the respective pieces that will reauthorize the SDP.

In early July, JDRF hosted Children’s Congress, which happens every two years in Washington D.C.  Our very own Gabby Hauser represented the Northeast Wisconsin Chapter and met with Wisconsin Legislators to remind them how important funding for T1D research is and the impact that T1D has on everyday life.  Gabby used her voice to change her life and all those living with Type 1 diabetes.

Watch for legislative alerts in the coming months about the SDP renewal and many more important issues to the T1D community.  If you aren’t an advocate, Click Here to sign up.  The time is now to let your voice be heard.

Sarah Meidl

Advocacy Team Chair