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SF 2071

Step therapy use protocol for insulin drugs prohibition

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Liz Boldon and 1 co-sponsor

Minnesota bill prohibits insurers from requiring step therapy for insulin, allowing diabetics direct access to prescribed insulin without prior authorization delays.

Comm report: To pass and re-referred to Health and Human Services
#drugsandmedicine #healthandhealthdepartment #insurance-health
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Bill Summary · SF 2071

Legislative bill overview

SF 2071 would prohibit insurance companies from using "step therapy" protocols for insulin medications in Minnesota. Step therapy requires patients to try lower-cost drugs first before insurance covers more expensive treatments. This bill would eliminate that requirement specifically for insulin, ensuring patients can access their prescribed insulin without mandatory prior authorization delays.

Why is this important

Insulin is a life-sustaining medication for diabetics with no substitutes—unlike other drugs where step therapy might reasonably redirect patients to alternatives. Delays in accessing the correct insulin dose can cause serious health complications including diabetic ketoacidosis, hypoglycemia, and long-term organ damage. The bill directly addresses patient safety concerns where insurance cost-containment measures could literally endanger lives.

Potential points of contention

  • Insurance industry costs: Removing step therapy for an entire drug class increases insurance claim costs, which may be passed to employers and consumers through higher premiums
  • Scope definition: The bill may need clarification on whether it applies to all insulins or specific types, and how it interacts with other prior authorization requirements
  • Market competition: Eliminating step therapy could reduce incentives for insulin manufacturers to compete on pricing, potentially increasing overall insulin costs in the market

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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