THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, January 17, 2025 Page 9 LAW| FROM PAGE 8 ra said. “We can make sure they are informed and understand the terminology we use and is used in the zoning ordinances. It would be very helpful for our community.” Ward 8 Councillor Jadeane Sica and Ward 1 Councillor Peg Crowe echoed this sentiment, noting the importance of having the right zoning in place before the February 2 implementation of the new law and also the communication with residents. Ward 3 Councillor Amanda Linehan concurred. “We have a DRUG | FROM PAGE 1 ceutical industry. An Act relative to pharmaceutical access, costs and transparency takes bold action to lower or eliminate out-ofpocket costs and ensure access to life-saving medications by requiring health insurers to offer price relief for prescription drugs used to treat diabetes, asthma and certain heart conditions. This Act was passed by the Massachusetts Senate and House in 2023 and 2024, respectively, after which a committee of conference resolved their versions of the bill. On January 9, 2025, Governor Maura Healey signed it into law as Chapter 342 of the Acts of 2024. Chapter 342 further brings down costs by ensuring that consumers are not charged a cost-sharing amount, such as a co-pay, if it would be cheaper for them to purchase the drug without using their insurance. Approximately 9% of Massachusetts residents have diagnosed diabetes; 6% of adults over 35 have heart disease; and more than 10% of residents live with asthma. Chapter 342 is particularly critical for residents of color, who disproportionately face chronic illnesses. Over 12% of Black residents live with diabetes and nearly 14% of Black adults live with asthma. “Working to expand access to quality, affordable healthcare has always been one of my top priorities in the legislature,” tight timeline but we can localize our ordinance before it becomes law (on February 2). Folks are getting ready right now (to add ADUs). We just have to be ready to give all the latest information to the public,” Councillor Linehan ssid. Ward 6 Councillor Stephen Winslow, who had taken the lead on working on the Council’s response to the Mayor’s zoning proposal pointed to the value of the Site Plan Review aspect of the new ADU concept. “The Site Plan Review aspect could address some of the concerns over this implementation and we can said Senator Lewis. “I’m proud to support this critical legislation that makes life-saving drugs more affordable and accessible for patients, and holds pharmaceutical companies, insurers, and pharmacy benefit managers more accountable for their actions.” “This legislation marks Massachusetts as a leader in addressing the rising costs of prescription medications,” said Representative Donato. “This bill emphasizes greater transparency in pricing and allows consumers to make informed decisions regarding their healthcare. It also shows the legislature’s continued commitment to reducing costs and improving the quality of healthcare in the Commonwealth.” “With this legislation, we take a significant step forward in making healthcare more accessible to all. By passing this bill to lower prescription drug costs, we are ensuring that no one has to sacrifice their health due to unaffordable medications,“ said Representative Ultrino. “This is a win for all who have felt the strain of rising drug prices. We will continue to work to create a healthcare system that prioritizes the well-being of our communities.” “Too often, patients are forced to pay exorbitant costs for prescription drug medications,” said Representative Lipper-Garabedian. “I was proud to join my colleagues to support this legislation to reduce copays, cover see what resources it will take to implement our local ordinance.” Councillor at large Carey McDonald said, “There is a crisis in housing and affordability and this new law creates more opportunities and addresses concerns. “Family units are changing and this law gives more flexibility if individual families require multi-generational living,” McDonald said. “ADUs will allow them to stay as families if they wish. I have seen family members have to move out due to lack of additional units. This new law supports those families.” generic drug prescription costs, and ensure increased oversight and regulations of Pharmacy Benefit Managers. This bill furthers the Commonwealth’s commitment to ensuring healthcare is affordable, accessible, and equitable for all of our residents.” Key provisions of this legislation: • Lowering consumer prescription drug costs for diabetes, asthma and certain heart conditions by requiring insurers to eliminate cost-sharing requirements for one generic drug and to cap copayments on one brand-name drug at $25 per 30-day supply • Increasing oversight of pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) by authorizing the state Division of Insurance to license and regulate PBMs, who play a major role in determining how prescription drugs are tiered and priced on insurance plans • Establishing the Office for Pharmaceutical Policy and Analysis within the Health Policy Commission (HPC) to analyze trends and publish an annual report with recommendations for strategies to promote affordability, enhance medication access and mitigate pharmaceutical spending growth • Requiring pharmaceutical manufacturers and PBMs to provide public testimony on the factors that influence drug costs and allowing these factors to be taken into account by the HPC to identify how to improve care and reduce costs for patients For Advertising with Results, call The Advocate Newspapers at 617-387-2200 or Info@advocatenews.net RETIRES| FROM PAGE 1 also has the unique distinction of working under five Malden Mayors! For nearly four decades, Debbie devoted tremendous energy to innumerable successful projects, including the construction of the new City Hall and Police Station, revitalizing the downtown area and renovating and establishing several monuments as well as overhauling just about every park in Malden. “Debbie has truly left her mark on the City of Malden,” said Mayor Christenson. “We wish her all the best in her well-deserved retirement.” Alex Pratt, former OSPCD Deputy Director of Housing and Community Development, has been named the new Executive Director. 425r Broadway, Saugus Located adjacent to Kohls Plaza Route 1 South in Saugus at the intersection of Walnut Street We are on MBTA Bus Route 429 781-231-1111 We are a Skating Rink with Bowling Alleys, Arcade and two TV’s where the ball games are always on! 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