HB3957 Summary

• Prohibits manufacturers and wholesale drug distributors from engaging in price gouging on essential off-patent or generic drugs sold in Illinois, effective January 1, 2024.

• Defines price gouging as an unconscionable price increase resulting in a 30-day supply exceeding $20 with increases of 30% or more in one year, 50% or more in three years, or 75% or more in five years.

• Authorizes the Attorney General to investigate suspected violations by requesting itemized cost information, manufacturing details, and competitor communications, with responses required within 45 days.

• Allows circuit courts to issue orders requiring refunds to consumers, restraining violations, imposing civil penalties up to $10,000 per day, and mandating drug availability at pre-violation prices for state health plan and Medicaid participants for up to one year.

• Exempts price increases justified by increased production costs or expenses for expanding drug access to promote public health.