U.S. Rep. Chris Pappas (NH-01) and Congressman Paul Tonko (NY-20) introduced the [pappas.house.gov/sites/evo-subsites/pappas.house.gov/files/evo-media-document/advancing-enrollment-and-reducing-drug-costs-act-of-2023.pdf]Advancing Enrollment and Reducing Drug Costs Act. This legislation would expand low-income seniors’ access to prescription drugs under the Medicare prescription drug benefit program, also known as Medicare Part D.

Medicare Part D helps low-income seniors afford their prescription drugs despite sky-rocketing costs. However, current law does not automatically enroll eligible seniors who previously qualified under Medicaid Expansion, leaving thousands of eligible seniors unaware they are eligible for assistance. This legislation cuts through this red tape by automatically enrolling individuals who aged out of Medicaid Expansion and into Medicare in Medicare Part D.

“No one should ever have to ration or go without life-saving prescription medications because of high prices,” said Congressman Pappas. “Reforms I fought to pass are capping prescription drug costs for seniors and finally allowing Medicare to negotiate lower prices. Now we have an opportunity to continue delivering savings to seniors who are eligible for Medicare Part D. My legislation will automatically enroll those who have benefitted from Medicaid expansion in Medicare Part D when they transition to Medicare, a change that will cut unnecessary bureaucratic red tape and ensure they see no lapse in their prescription drug benefits.”

“Our seniors deserve secure, reliable access to affordable healthcare. That’s why we’ve taken significant steps through the Inflation Reduction Act to lower costs and cut the red tape that prevents too many seniors from accessing the medications they need. Now, I’m proud to join Congressman Pappas in moving forward with this legislation that will further expand access to life-saving prescription drugs by ensuring that seniors can get the medications they need through their existing Medicare eligibility,” said Congressman Tonko.

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