New York Requires Health Insurers to Cover EpiPens as Cost of Life-Saving Device Skyrockets

In a groundbreaking move to combat rising healthcare costs, New York Governor Kathy Hochul signed a law mandating health insurers cover EpiPens as they surge in price.

The cost of EpiPens has soared by 600% since 2007, with a two-pack now exceeding $600, 13 WHAM reported.

These devices, essential for treating anaphylaxis, have a short shelf life of about 12 months, forcing users to pay annually.

These rising costs have left many individuals rationing expired devices or delaying necessary prescriptions.

The new legislation, S.7114-A/A.6425-A, requires New York health insurers to cover at least two medically necessary epinephrine auto-injectors per patient and limit out-of-pocket costs to $100 annually.

"For people with severe allergies, immediate access to an EpiPen device can mean the difference between life and death," Hochul said. "When every second counts, the last thing New Yorkers should have to worry about is whether they can afford the medication they need to survive an anaphylactic reaction. By signing this bill, we are putting people over profit and giving New Yorkers peace of mind by ensuring equitable access to this lifesaving emergency treatment."

The bill, effective January 1, 2026, passed with overwhelming bipartisan support. It is the first of its kind in the U.S. and ensures equitable access to EpiPens for individuals with commercial health insurance.