NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The General Assembly recently approved legislation to expand step therapy exemptions to ensure all cancer patients can access the medication they need without unnecessary delays.
House Bill 1956, sponsored by State Rep. Rebecca Alexander, R-Jonesborough, expands a 2025 law that prohibits health insurers from requiring step therapy before covering approved prescription drug for patients with stage 4 metastatic cancer or blood cancer. House Bill 1956 extends those protections to all cancer patients.
“This legislation ensures cancer patients can access the right treatment from the start without having to try less effective options first,” Alexander said. “Time matters in cancer care and getting the right medication early can save lives. I’m grateful to my colleagues in the General Assembly for their support.”
Step therapy is a process where insurance companies require a patient to try a cheaper alternative medication before stepping up to a higher-level medication.
The bill now heads to Gov. Bill Lee’s desk to be signed into law. The expanded exemptions will go into effect on Jan. 1, 2027.
The 114th General Assembly adjourned sine die on April 23.
Rebecca Alexander represents District 7 in the Tennessee House of Representatives which includes part of Washington County.
###