Bill · H.R. 1227· House(119-HR-1227)

Alternatives to PAIN Act

Age: 71 years

Iowa

Introduced: 2/12/2025
Last activity: 2/12/2025 — Referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
Sponsored by: Mariannette Miller-Meeks
Cosponsors: - 51 - 63

Health

Introduced
In Committee

What this bill would do

The bill is officially known as the Alternatives to Prevent Addiction In the Nation Act or the Alternatives to PAIN Act. It aims to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to ensure appropriate access to non-opioid pain management drugs under part D of the Medicare program. For plan years beginning on or after January 1, 2026, the legislation removes deductibles for qualifying non-opioid pain management drugs. It also requires these drugs to be placed on the lowest cost-sharing tier. Additionally, the bill prohibits prescription drug plans from using step therapy requirements where an individual must use an opioid first, or prior authorization requirements for these qualifying drugs.

Yes· 3 of 6

Does this do more about addiction and overdose deaths?+8
The bill addresses the opioid crisis by prioritizing access to non-opioid alternatives for pain management.
Would people over 65 be better off under this?+8
The bill provides significant cost-sharing benefits for Medicare-eligible seniors seeking non-opioid pain management.
Would retired people be better off under this?+8
The bill directly benefits retirees by reducing the cost and removing administrative barriers for non-opioid pain medications under Medicare Part D.