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A bill to amend title XI of the Social Security Act to require that direct-to-consumer advertisements for prescription drugs and biological products include an appropriate disclosure of pricing information.
1/31/2025, 5:53 PM
Summary of Bill S 229
The bill would require that pricing information be clearly disclosed in any direct-to-consumer advertisements for prescription drugs and biological products. This information would include the list price of the medication, as well as any out-of-pocket costs that consumers may incur. By providing this pricing information upfront, the bill aims to empower consumers to make more informed decisions about their healthcare and potentially reduce the financial burden of prescription medications.
Proponents of the bill argue that increased transparency in drug pricing will help to hold pharmaceutical companies accountable for their pricing practices and may ultimately lead to lower drug costs for consumers. However, opponents of the bill raise concerns about the potential impact on the pharmaceutical industry, including the possibility of decreased advertising and innovation in drug development. Overall, Bill 119 s 229 represents a significant step towards increasing transparency in the pharmaceutical industry and empowering consumers to make more informed decisions about their healthcare. It will be important to closely monitor the implementation of this bill and assess its impact on drug pricing and consumer behavior.
Congressional Summary of S 229
Drug-price Transparency for Consumers Act of 2025 or the DTC Act of 2025
This bill requires consumer advertisements for prescription drugs and biological products to include certain price information if the drug or biologic is (1) covered under Medicare or Medicaid, and (2) required to include a risk summary under current law.
Specifically, such advertisements must clearly and conspicuously disclose the wholesale price for a 30-day supply of the drug or biologic and may explain that a consumer may pay a different amount for the drug or biologic depending on the consumer's health insurance coverage.
The requirement does not apply to advertisements for drugs or biologics with a wholesale cost of less than $35 for a one-month supply.
Each violation of this requirement is subject to a civil penalty of not more than $100,000.
Current Status of Bill S 229
Bipartisan Support of Bill S 229
Total Number of Sponsors
4Democrat Sponsors
4Republican Sponsors
0Unaffiliated Sponsors
0Total Number of Cosponsors
17Democrat Cosponsors
8Republican Cosponsors
7Unaffiliated Cosponsors
2Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill S 229
Primary Policy Focus
Alternate Title(s) of Bill S 229
Comments

Imran Chappell
10 months ago
I'm so pumped about this new bill! It's about time we start seeing some transparency in drug pricing. I mean, who hasn't been blindsided by a crazy expensive prescription at the pharmacy? This could really make a difference for so many people. But I wonder, how will this bill impact the overall cost of healthcare in the long run? Can't wait to see how this plays out!

Madeleine Neal
10 months ago
I think it's a good idea to have pricing info in ads for meds. It could help people make better choices. Can't wait to see how this goes!




