01 — The Text
What.
- Automatically deems all FDA-licensed biosimilars interchangeable with brand-name originals, eliminating extra safety testing currently required.
- Takes effect 60 days after passage. Previously licensed biosimilars gain interchangeable status immediately.
- Preserves exclusive market periods for first biosimilars approved before the law takes effect.
02 — The Stakes
So what?
- Patients win: Pharmacists can substitute cheaper biosimilar drugs at the counter without prescriber approval, lowering out-of-pocket costs.
- Generic drugmakers win: Reduced barriers to market entry mean faster competition and lower approval costs.
- Brand-name manufacturers lose: Broader substitution erodes market protection for expensive original biologics.
03 — The Path
Now what?
- Passed Senate committee July 27, 2026. Heads to full Senate floor vote; passage momentum appears strong with bipartisan support.
- Contact your senator to express support or opposition before floor vote.
Legislative History
Actions.
- Jul 27, 2026 — Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 521.
- Jul 27, 2026 — Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. Reported by Senator Cassidy with an amendment in the nature of a substitute. Without written report.
- Jul 27, 2026 — Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. Reported by Senator Cassidy with an amendment in the nature of a substitute. Without written report.
- Jun 17, 2026 — Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. Ordered to be reported with an amendment in the nature of a substitute favorably.
- Jun 4, 2025 — Read twice and referred to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions.
- Jun 4, 2025 — Introduced in Senate