Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S2112

Introduced
1/16/26  

Caption

Requires health plans that provide prescription benefits to cover at least one type of glucagon auto-injector, nasal spray, or formulation that does not require reconstitution to treat hypoglycemia. No copayment or deductible would be required.

Impact

The proposed legislation is expected to significantly impact state laws related to health insurance coverage and diabetes care management. By removing financial barriers associated with procuring glucagon, the bill aims to ensure that individuals with diabetes can more effectively manage their condition and prevent emergencies resulting from low blood sugar levels. Supporters argue that this will lead to better health outcomes and potentially reduce the overall costs associated with diabetes-related health emergencies. The state assembly acknowledges that swift access to glucagon can be the difference between life and death in critical situations, supporting this expansion in coverage as a necessary public health measure.

Summary

Senate Bill S2112 aims to improve the accessibility of glucagon auto-injectors by requiring all health insurance plans that offer prescription benefits to cover at least one type of glucagon formulation that does not require reconstitution. This coverage is mandated to begin on January 1, 2027. The bill stipulates that individuals covered under such health plans would not face any copayment or deductible for obtaining up to two glucagon auto-injectors within a single plan year. This initiative is driven by the recognition of glucagon's critical role as a life-saving medication for individuals experiencing severe hypoglycemia, a common risk associated with diabetes management.

Contention

While the bill has received support for promising improved health outcomes, it may also face some contention regarding its implications for health insurance economics. Questions may arise concerning the financial impact on insurance providers who are now required to expand their coverage without co-pays or deductibles. Some industry stakeholders fear that this requirement could result in increased premiums or constraints on other types of covered services. Balance between accessibility and financial sustainability will likely be a central topic of debate as the bill progresses through the legislative process.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H5173

Requires health plans that provide prescription benefits to cover at least one type of glucagon auto-injector, nasal spray, or formulation that does not require reconstitution to treat hypoglycemia. No copayment or deductible would be required.

RI S0115

Requires health plans that provide prescription benefits to cover at least one type of glucagon auto-injector, nasal spray, or formulation that does not require reconstitution to treat hypoglycemia. No copayment or deductible would be required.

RI H6422

Requires every individual or group health insurance contract, plan, or policy to provide coverage for at least one type of buprenorphine for each form of administration.

RI H5120

Provides an insurer would not impose prior authorization requirements for any service ordered by an in-network primary care provider.

RI S0053

Provides an insurer would not impose prior authorization requirements for any service ordered by an in-network primary care provider.

RI S0168

Provides an insurer would not impose prior authorization requirements for any service ordered by an in-network primary care provider.

RI S0121

Requires a report to be produced that focuses on prescription drug prior authorizations by January 1, 2026.

RI H5433

Requires a report to be produced that focuses on prescription drug prior authorizations by January 1, 2026.

RI H5486

Requires certified athletic trainers to be trained in the administration of epinephrine auto-injectors (epi-pens) and would require such professionals to be equipped with the medication while performing professional activities.

RI S0321

Requires certified athletic trainers to be trained in the administration of epinephrine auto-injectors (epi-pens) and would require such professionals to be equipped with the medication while performing professional activities.

Similar Bills

FL H0597

Diabetes Management in Schools

NJ A4548

Concerns administration of ready-to-use undesignated glucagon rescue therapy in public schools.

KY HB75

AN ACT relating to undesignated glucagon.

KY HB174

AN ACT relating to undesignated glucagon.

FL S0772

Diabetes Management in Schools

KY HB263

AN ACT relating to undesignated glucagon.

MA H671

Relative to undesignated glucagon rescue therapies in schools

TX HB350

Relating to the use of glucagon medication on certain public and private school campuses.