Joseph Celeste, Matthew Barrett, Michael Connors and Dominick Siniscalchi

Abstract:

Insulin affordability continues to remain one of the nation’s most important and urgent public health concerns. A lack of insulin for diabetics leads to a multitude of short and long term health complications, such as diabetic ketoacidosis, which can lead to death. Since the cost of insulin for those who are not covered by high cost health insurance plans is too high, many Americans have found themselves rationing insulin to balance out other life expenses, such as rent or food. The current monthly supply is capped at $100, however the bill we have lobbied for would lower this to only $30. We will discuss how S.504 and A.4141 change the lives of diabetic New York citizens and our progress with advocating for it. By discussing our experiences in lobbying for these bills, we can show some of our struggles that we experienced going through the whole process, but also explain how the process of lobbying works to those who may not know about it.