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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

Bill 119 s 229, also known as the "Drug Price Transparency Act," aims to amend title XI of the Social Security Act to mandate that direct-to-consumer advertisements for prescription drugs and biological products must include pricing information. This bill seeks to increase transparency in the pharmaceutical industry by ensuring that consumers are informed about the costs of the medications they see advertised.

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

Bill S 229 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since January 23, 2025. Bill S 229 was introduced during Congress 119 and was introduced to the Senate on January 23, 2025.  Bill S 229's most recent activity was Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance. (text: CR S337-338; Sponsor introductory remarks on measure: CR S337) as of January 23, 2025

Bipartisan Support of Bill S 229

Total Number of Sponsors
4
Democrat Sponsors
4
Republican Sponsors
0
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
17
Democrat Cosponsors
8
Republican Cosponsors
7
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
2

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill S 229

Primary Policy Focus

Alternate Title(s) of Bill S 229

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.
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.

Comments

Imran Chappell profile image

Imran Chappell

443

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 profile image

Madeleine Neal

500

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!