Alec Smith Insulin Affordability Act: How To Apply

TWIN CITIES, MN — Wednesday marked the launch of Minnesota's Insulin Safety Net program created by the Alec Smith Insulin Affordability Act. The program allows Minnesotans in urgent need of insulin to access the life-saving drug through their pharmacy.

Alec Smith died at the age of 26 after losing his parents’ health insurance and was not able to afford the insulin he needed to survive. Walz declared July 1, 2020 as Alec Smith Day in the state of Minnesota.

"Every Minnesotan deserves access to the medicine they need at a price they can afford," Gov. Tim Walz said in a news release.

"But the skyrocketing cost of insulin has priced too many Minnesotans out of the drug they need to live. Thanks to the fighting spirit of Minnesotans with diabetes and the families who have lost loved ones to this crisis, this program will now provide much-needed relief to Minnesotans struggling to afford their insulin."

The Insulin Safety Net Program — implemented by MNsure and the Minnesota Board of Pharmacy — has two parts:

• The urgent need program for eligible Minnesotans to receive a once-per-year 30-day supply of insulin immediately at their pharmacy for no more than a $35 copay;
• The continuing need program for eligible Minnesotans to receive up to a year supply of insulin for no more than $50 per 90-day refill.

Interested individuals should visit MNinsulin.org to apply.