BIO and CBSA applaud Colorado for approving biologic medicines bill

The Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO) and the Colorado BioScience Association (CBSA) today applauded Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper for signing Senate Bill 71, legislation that creates a pathway for the substitution of interchangeable biologic medicines.

“Senate Bill 71 enjoys the support of physicians across the country, patient groups and both innovator biologic and biosimilar manufacturing companies,” BIO CEO and President Jim Greenwood said. “This bill includes transparent communication on all biologic medicines dispensed in order to maintain a consistent and complete medical record.”

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is in charge of approving biologic medicines and designating interchangeability, but state laws govern whether one product may be substituted in place of a doctor’s prescription and whether pharmacists must inform patients and doctors of a substitute.

The legislation seeks to preserve patient access to accurate prescription information, maintain incentives for innovation and promote a competitive market for biologic therapies.

“We’re really pleased to see Colorado leading the way in adopting policies that not only support a growing industry in our state but more importantly allow patients access to safe, effective cutting-edge therapies when the first interchangeable biologics are approved by the FDA.” CBSA CEO and President April Giles said.