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Build Back Better Act Passes the House of Representatives

November 19, 2021

On Friday, November 19th, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 5376, the Build Back Better Act, a reconciliation bill that comprises President Biden’s “Build Back Better” agenda. The bill now heads to the Senate where changes and revisions are expected. 

Eighty-five percent of people MS believe the federal government should do more to control the high cost of MS disease-modifying treatments,” said Bari Talente, Executive Vice President of Advocacy and Healthcare Access. “We applaud the House of Representatives for taking action to improve access to affordable and quality health care, lower the cost of prescription drugs, and implement a national paid leave program. These measures are necessary for people affected by MS to live their best lives. The Society urges the Senate to quickly act to pass the Build Back Better Act.”

The Build Back Better Act includes many important provisions that the Society supports including:
  • Making health coverage options more affordable by expanding the Affordable Care Act advance premium tax credits;
  • Funding to strengthen home and community-based services and help build the direct care workforce;
  • Addressing the high cost of prescription drugs by allowing Medicare to negotiate prices for specific drugs, capping annual Medicare prescription drug out of pocket costs at $2,000 and implementing a smoothing mechanism that allows Medicare beneficiaries to spread these costs over the plan year;
  • Implementing national paid family and medical leave (4 weeks); and
  • Expanding healthcare coverage by closing the Medicaid coverage gap. 
For more information and updates on policies supported by the National MS Society follow @MSativist on twitter and sign up to become a member of the MS Activist Network.

About Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis is an unpredictable disease of the central nervous system. Currently there is no cure. Symptoms vary from person to person and may include disabling fatigue, mobility challenges, cognitive changes, and vision issues. An estimated 1 million people live with MS in the United States. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to minimize disability. Significant progress is being made to achieve a world free of MS.

About the National Multiple Sclerosis Society

The National MS Society, founded in 1946, is the global leader of a growing movement dedicated to creating a world free of MS. The Society funds cutting-edge research for a cure, drives change through advocacy and provides programs and services to help people affected by MS live their best lives. Connect to learn more and get involved: nationalMSsociety.org, Facebook, X, formerly known as Twitter, Instagram, YouTube or 1-800-344-4867.

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© 2024 The National Multiple Sclerosis Society is a tax exempt 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. Its Identification Number (EIN) is 13-5661935.