Caps the total amount that a covered person is required to pay for a covered prescription inhaler, prescription device, or prescription equipment to twenty-five dollars ($25.00) per thirty (30) day supply.

Rhode Island Bill Summary: Prescription Inhaler Cost Cap

This bill would limit how much Rhode Island residents with health insurance have to pay out-of-pocket for prescription inhalers and related breathing equipment. Specifically, it would cap the cost at $25 or less for a 30-day supply, regardless of what the insurance plan would otherwise charge. This means that even if a person's insurance plan has a high deductible or requires a large copay for these medications, the most they could ever be asked to pay would be $25 per month.

The bill would affect people who have health insurance that covers prescription drugs — often called "covered persons" — and who need inhalers or similar prescription breathing devices. This is particularly relevant for individuals living with conditions like asthma, COPD, or other respiratory illnesses who rely on these medications regularly. Without a cap like this, some patients can face costs of $50, $100, or even several hundred dollars per month for the same medications.

It's important to note that this bill applies to insurance coverage, so it would not automatically help people who are uninsured. Health insurers and pharmacy benefit plans operating in Rhode Island would be required to comply with the new pricing limit if the bill becomes law.

Currently, the bill has been referred to the House Health & Human Services Committee and is scheduled for a hearing in early 2026, though it has also been recommended for further study, meaning it has not yet moved forward toward a full vote.