Ensuring Access to Lower-Cost Medicines for Seniors Act of 2026.
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Committee
Latest Action · March 27, 2026
Referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
H.R. 8143, the Ensuring Access to Lower-Cost Medicines for Seniors Act of 2026, requires Medicare prescription drug plans to include cheaper generic drugs and biosimilar medications on their formularies (approved drug lists) in a preferred position—meaning lower patient costs and fewer barriers—compared to their brand-name counterparts. Beginning January 1, 2027, drug plans must include every generic drug that costs less than the original drug and at least two biosimilar products that are cheaper than the brand-name biologic, while prohibiting insurance companies from using restrictive approval tactics like prior authorization or step therapy that would discourage seniors from choosing these lower-cost options. The bill affects Medicare beneficiaries covered under Part D prescription drug plans and is designed to lower medication costs for seniors by promoting use of more affordable alternatives. There is no specific funding mechanism or dollar amount mentioned in the legislation; rather, it operates through regulatory requirements on private insurance plans that administer Medicare drug coverage.
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