A new New York state law that will require health insurers to cover EpiPens and caps the amount consumers will be required to pay out of pocket at $100 will go into effect on New Year’s Day.
Gov. Kathy Hochul signed the legislation in late 2024 and it will be implemented starting on Jan. 1, 2026.
EpiPen devices are used to allergic reactions for people who are at risk or have a history of anaphylaxis, which can be caused by insect bites or stings, foods, medications, environmental exposures, exercise and other unknown causes.
According to the governor’s office, the cost of EpiPen devices has outpaced the rate of inflation, with some reports citing a 600% increase in price since 2007. While EpiPens once cost $60 per device, they can now sell for upwards of $600 for a pack of two pens. The new law will make health insurers in the individual and group markets, which includes nonprofit insurers and HMOs, to cover medically necessary EpiPens.
“New Yorkers shouldn’t have to choose between putting food on the table or being able to afford life-saving medical devices and procedures,” Hochul said in a statement Wednesday. “With these new laws going into effect, individuals will be able to focus on their health and wellbeing without having to worry about the financial burdens tied to treatments.”