Koehler law reforms pharmacy benefit manager practices

PEORIA—State Senator Dave Koehler led a new law to end unfair practices by pharmacy benefit managers, in turn protecting local pharmacies and consumers.

"Pharmacy benefit managers have too often prioritized profits at the expense of patients and local pharmacies," said Koehler (D-Peoria). "This new law allows transparency and fairness, keeping health care services affordable and accessible for Illinois families."

House Bill 1697, the Prescription Drug Affordability Act, targets pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), entities that manage prescription drug benefits for insurers. This law will end harmful practices, such as “spread pricing,” where pharmacy benefit managers profit by charging insurers significantly more than what pharmacies receive. It also will restrict PBMs from profiting from the sale of drugs to pharmacies, and would require them to return 100% of pharmacy rebates back to the individuals or sponsoring organizations. Further, it prevents pharmacy benefit managers from unfairly steering patients toward particular pharmacies and stops PBMs from limiting an individual’s access to a drug from a pharmacy by classifying it as a “specialty drug.”

"Local pharmacies serve as trusted health care resources, particularly in underserved and rural communities," Koehler said. "This law protects consumers and community pharmacies from PBM harmful practices and prevents pharmacy deserts across Illinois."

House Bill 1697 was signed into law Tuesday.

Koehler announces grant for Peoria manufacturer through Made in Illinois program

PEORIA – State Senator Dave Koehler announced Thursday that GEO. J. Rothan Co. in Peoria has been selected to receive state funding through the Made in Illinois Grant Program.

“Small manufacturers help keep our communities unique and vibrant,” said Koehler (D-Peoria). “This grant helps GEO. J. Rothan Co. continue their innovative work, keeping jobs local and strengthening our region.”

Made in Illinois Grant Program recipients were awarded matching grants of up to $50,000. The purpose of these grants is to help small and mid-sized manufacturers fund projects that promote innovation, enhance productivity and improve competitiveness. Statewide, the 2025 program awarded $1.35 million to 29 manufacturers, including GEO. J. Rothan Co., a small millwork company based in Peoria.

“These grants are about keeping skilled jobs right here in Peoria,” Koehler said. “By putting resources toward local businesses like GEO. J. Rothan Co., we support workers and contribute to the ongoing success of our local economy.”

Find a full list of grant recipients here.  

Koehler announces nearly one million dollars in grants for South Village Homes Project

PEORIA – State Senator Dave Koehler is happy to share that nearly $1 million in state grant funding will go to supporting the Central Illinois Community Development Corporation’s South Village Homes Project in Peoria.

“This is major funding for the future of Peoria’s South Village neighborhood,” said Koehler (D-Peoria). “It’s about creating safe, affordable housing and revitalizing our community so families can thrive.”

The Central Illinois Community Development Corporation will receive $999,735.19 for the South Village Homes Project. The project is designed to expand the availability of quality, affordable housing, improve neighborhood stability and support community growth.

“These grants send a clear message that every neighborhood deserves the resources to build a stronger community,” Koehler said. “I will continue advocating for projects that improve quality of life and create lasting economic opportunities for Peoria residents.”

The grant is funded through state programs designed to support local development initiatives in historically disadvantaged and underserved communities. You can find a full list of grant recipients here.

Koehler looks forward to the continued support to health care in this year’s budget

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Dave Koehler is happy to share the quality investments in community health care services as part of the state’s newly approved Fiscal Year 2026 budget. He emphasized crucial funding for federally qualified health centers, and charitable clinics throughout Illinois.

“This year’s budget demonstrates our commitment to providing all Illinois residents with high-quality access to health care,” Koehler (D-Peoria) stated. “Our Investment in community-based providers makes certain that essential healthcare services remain available and open for vulnerable residents both in the 46^th district and across the state.”

The budget allocates meaningful funding for federally qualified health centers (and safety net hospitals which will help reinforce their ability to serve uninsured and underinsured residents of Illinois. Additionally, free and charitable clinics will receive increased support, allowing them to continue providing essential care to patients who might otherwise lack access to necessary services.

In addition to those, Koehler successfully passed legislation addressing pharmacy benefit manager practices, safeguarding patient access to medications, and protecting pharmacies engaged in the federal 340B prescription drug program. The Patient Access to Pharmacy Protection Act and Prescription Drug Affordability Act passed this session, and are receiving funding through the governor’s budget.

“Health care should be accessible to all, and Illinois is taking the correct steps to make healthcare more affordable. These investments have the chance to help shape the health and well-being of families,” Koehler said. “By supporting critical access to places like safety-net hospitals, local clinics, and community pharmacies, we are one step closer to making sure that no resident of Illinois is left behind.”

The Fiscal Year 2026 budget passed the Senate Saturday.