Congresswoman Nikema Williams Introduces Legislation to Lower Prescription Drug Prices

WASHINGTON D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Nikema Williams (GA-05), along with Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02), Rep. Angie Craig (MN-02), and Rep. Bryan Steil (WI-01), introduced the Plain Prescription Prices Act, legislation that would require direct-to-consumer television advertisements for prescription drugs to include a statement of the drug’s list price. 

This change will empower consumers to hold drug manufacturers accountable if they spike prescription drug prices for profit. This is another important step to lower costs and ensure access to affordable healthcare for everyone. 

Congresswoman Williams introduced similar legislation in the 118th Congress.

Congresswoman Nikema Williams said:

“Quality, affordable healthcare must include transparent prescription pricing. Fighting Fifth constituents have shared heartbreaking stories of rationing medication or struggling to put food on the table just to afford skyrocketing drug costs. It’s time to hold Big Pharma accountable for prioritizing excessive profits over people’s health. The Plain Prescription Prices Act will lower prescription drug costs for everyone and put power back in the hands of consumers, so they can make the best choices for their healthcare.”

“About 31 percent of adults are not taking a prescription due to the cost because they don’t know the price up front,” said Rep. Bacon. “There were 4,200 drug prices that increased at a higher rate than inflation, and this is another important step to lowering costs for Americans.”

“Every time Minnesotans turn on the TV, they are bombarded with pharmaceutical ads,” said Rep. Craig. “While Big Pharma rakes in record profits by pushing their products on TV, they are not required to state the list prices of their drugs. I’m proud to be working with my colleagues on this common-sense legislation to increase transparency and hold pharmaceutical companies accountable for price-gouging Minnesotans.”

“Prescription drug prices strain budgets for many families and seniors,” said Congressman Bryan Steil. “I am proud to co-lead the Plain Prescription Prices Act to help improve drug price transparency and empower patients to make choices that best meet their needs.”

By the numbers: 

• 61 percent of American adults take at least one prescription medication.
• 55 percent of adults are worried about being able to afford prescription drugs.
• The prices of the 25 top Medicare Part D drugs have increased by an average of 226 percent since they first entered the market.
• 31 percent of adults report not having taken a Medicine as prescribed due to costs. 
• From 2022 to 2023, 4,200 drug prices increased, of which 46 percent were larger than the rate of inflation.

Endorsing Organizations: Patients for Affordable Drugs NOW, Protect Our Care

Read the full resolution here.

Read a one-pager on the resolution here.