Continued the debate
Butler supported the bill, stating it delivered on a pre-election commitment to strengthen Medicare and provide cheaper medicines. Butler argued the legislation would save general patients over $200 million annually by reducing the maximum co-payment to $25, matching the 2004 rate. Butler cited examples of patients rationing medication due to cost, including cutting tablets or skipping doses, to illustrate the need for relief. Butler maintained that the funding level was chosen to ensure PBS sustainability without compromising other health priorities like bulk-billing or new medicine listings. Butler noted that indexation from January 2027 would be based on the new $25 amount, providing long-term savings.