AUGUSTA - Legislation sponsored by Rep. Denise Tepler, D-Topsham, was signed into law by Gov. Mills on Wednesday.
The new law requires that emergency insulin refills be dispensed in at least a 30-day supply and changes a section of law known as "Kevin's Law," which was named after a young man with Type 1 diabetes died when his prescription for insulin expired. Prior to the passage of LD 60, Kevin's Law required an emergency insulin refill to be dispensed in the quantity that was the lesser of a 30-day supply and in the smallest available package. This legislation clarifies the language to specify "at least a 30-day supply" and will make the dispensing of emergency insulin easier for pharmacists and patients.
"I am grateful to the father of Kevin of Kevin's Law for bringing this issue to my attention," said Tepler. "This is a simple, sensible change that will allow more people to access this life-saving drug."
The new law will go into effect later this year, 90 days after the Legislature adjourns.
Tepler is serving her fourth term in the Maine House and represents the town of Topsham. She serves as the House chair of the Health Coverage, Insurance and Financial Services Committee.
Contact:
Jackie Merrill [Tepler], c. 812-1111