What my bill does is make Narcan and other other medications like Narcan that reverse opioid overdoses – now that it’s going to be available over-the-counter, it’s added to the list of covered medications, by Medi-Cal and private insurance. So if I go into a Walgreens or Rite Aid, I can go and pick up a spray of Narcan and it’s free. I don’t have to worry about paying $50-100 to be able to buy this life-saving medication.
Interestingly enough, the hospital insurance industry reached out to me very early on when I first introduced and said “We might have some concerns. We will get back to you if we do.” They never showed up to any of the hearings . They never sent me any letters – not until .
I made it very clear to the health care insurance industry that I would not be bullied or cornered into accepting any amendments because I understand that they’re in the business of making profits – I’m in the business of saving lives. That’s what my bill does.Republicans are always skeptical of cost increases, especially when it comes from the government.