As the 2025 Colorado legislative session comes to a close, we at Lupus Colorado want to take a moment to reflect—on what we’ve achieved, what we’ve learned, and how we’ll keep fighting for the patients and families we serve.

Two Wins for Patients Now Await the Governor’s Signature

This year brought important victories for access and equity in health care. House Bill 1270—Colorado’s Right to Try for Off-Label Use—is now on the Governor’s desk. If signed, this groundbreaking legislation will empower patients facing serious illness to try FDA-approved medications for off-label uses when other options have been exhausted. This is a lifeline for many in our community, especially those living with complex and poorly understood diseases like lupus.

We’re also celebrating the passage of House Bill 1094, a long-awaited reform targeting Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs). PBMs influence nearly every prescription drug transaction, yet they operate with minimal transparency. HB1094 introduces meaningful accountability and lays the groundwork for a fairer system—one that centers patients instead of profit. After years of being sidelined by middlemen, lupus patients and others with chronic conditions may finally see relief at the pharmacy counter.

A Disheartening Setback on 340B Reform

But not all of our work ended in victory. Senate Bill 124, a transparency bill we supported to hold hospitals accountable for how they use 340B drug discount savings, was dramatically altered—by its own sponsor—and ultimately failed in the House. Meanwhile, SB71, a competing bill crafted by hospital lobbyists, sailed through both chambers without a single amendment. The voices of patients were overlooked. Our community, which relies heavily on 340B-covered care, especially those on Medicaid, was left behind.

We are disappointed. And yes, we are frustrated. But we are not defeated.

Looking Ahead: Our Work Is Just Beginning

Every step forward—every conversation, every testimony, every phone call—makes a difference. This session reminded us just how important it is that patients not only be heard, but truly considered in policy decisions. When systems protect themselves at the expense of the people they serve, we must rise louder and stronger.

To those who stood with us this session—thank you. To those just learning about the broken parts of our system—welcome. We’re glad you’re here. And to every person living with lupus in Colorado: we see you, we’re with you, and we will never stop fighting for your care, your dignity, and your future.

Let’s take a breath, regroup, and get ready. Because this story isn’t over. In fact, we’re just getting started.