Contact Congress about S. 229: DTC Act of 2025

Many TV and other public drug ads would have to show the drug's list price. The rule covers many Medicare- and Medicaid-covered prescription drugs and biologic drugs, with an exemption for lower-cost drugs. HHS could fine companies up to $100,000 per violation for breaking the rule.

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DTC Act of 2025 is a Senate bill in committee. The latest recorded action: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance. (text: CR S337-338; Sponsor introductory remarks on measure: CR S337).

Latest action on S. 229: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance. (text: CR S337-338; Sponsor introductory remarks on measure: CR S337)

Who this affects: This bill mainly affects people who see drug ads, drug companies that advertise to the public, and the federal programs that pay for many of these drugs. Patients could see list prices more often in ads. Drug makers would have to track those prices, update ads when prices change, and risk fines if they do not follow the rules.

Why this matters: This bill matters because many people first hear about a drug from an ad, but those ads usually do not tell them the list price. If the price appears in the ad, some patients may better judge whether a drug looks affordable or worth asking about. That could change conversations with doctors and could affect which drugs people ask for. The bill may also put pressure on drug makers that advertise expensive products, but it is not clear how much it would change actual spending.

Key provisions in S. 229

• This rule covers many ads aimed at the public for prescription drugs and biologic drugs. The drug must be approved or licensed, covered by Medicare or Medicaid, and already subject to federal ad rules that require safety and effectiveness information.
• Covered ads would have to show the drug's wholesale acquisition cost, which is the legal term for list price. They would have to show it clearly for a 30-day supply or for the usual treatment course tied to the ad's main use.
• Lower-cost drugs would be exempt from this rule. That exemption applies when the wholesale acquisition cost is under $35 for a 30-day supply or usual treatment course.
• An ad could also tell viewers that their own out-of-pocket cost may be different. That amount can change based on their insurance coverage.
• HHS would have to issue final rules within one year after the bill becomes law. Those rules would set visual and audio standards for each kind of ad and say how fast ads must be updated when prices change.

How Modern Action helps you take action on S. 229

You do not have to start with a blank letter. Modern Action turns the bill, your position, and the relevant congressional context into a message you can edit and send. The goal is to make contacting Congress clear, specific, and useful without forcing you to parse bill text or figure out the right office on your own.

Questions people ask about S. 229

What is S. 229?

Many TV and other public drug ads would have to show the drug's list price. The rule covers many Medicare- and Medicaid-covered prescription drugs and biologic drugs, with an exemption for lower-cost drugs. HHS could fine companies up to $100,000 per violation for breaking the rule.

How do I support or oppose S. 229?

Choose support, oppose, or ask for changes on Modern Action. The action flow drafts the message for you and keeps the wording tied to this bill.

Who should I contact about S. 229?

Modern Action uses your location to route the action to the congressional offices relevant to the bill and your representation.

Can Modern Action explain S. 229 before I act?

Yes. Modern Action gives you a plain-English summary, current status, and action context before you send anything.