JACKSON, Miss. – The Mississippi Senate passed Senate Bill 2694 Wednesday, February 11, paving the way for increased access to biomarker testing for patients across the Magnolia State. Biomarker testing is a key tool used by physicians to identify the most effective treatments for cancer and other diseases.
“In the case of a cancer diagnosis, biomarker testing helps doctors develop a personalized treatment plan so some patients can avoid treatments that won’t work for their individual disease. It can help save critical time in a cancer fight,” said Kimberly Hughes, government relations director for the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) in Mississippi. “More than 18,000 Mississippians will hear the words ‘you have cancer’ this year. Everyone who can benefit from biomarker testing deserves access.”
The House companion bill, known as Jill’s Law, is named for Jill Eure, the late wife of Rep. Casey Eure. Jill Eure benefited from biomarker testing after her cancer diagnosis. Her story is a testament to the power of innovation in medicine and to the urgency of making these tools available to all Mississippians.
SB2694 would ensure coverage of biomarker testing keeps up with the latest science for patients with state-regulated insurance plans.
"We are grateful to both the House and Senate for passing their respective versions of the biomarker testing coverage bill and appreciate sponsors Sen. Walter Michel and Rep. Sam Creekmore. We are eager to see the bills take their final steps and go to the Governor for a signature," Hughes said.
The Senate bill passage comes on the heels of ACS CAN's Mississippi Cancer Action Day and unanimous House passage of the companion bill.