Business

Novo Nordisk boosts lobbying as it seeks Medicare coverage for obesity drugs on August 22, 2023 at 10:00 am Business News | The Hill

Published

2 years ago

August 22, 2023

Novo Nordisk, the maker of the weight loss drug Wegovy and diabetes medication Ozempic, went on a federal lobbying spending spree in the first six months of 2023.

The Danish drugmaker is pushing Congress to pass a bill that would nix Medicare restrictions on covering weight management treatments.

Novo Nordisk has hired three new lobbying firms over the past three months, all of which disclosed being solely focused on issues related to obesity and Medicare coverage of anti-obesity drugs.

A 2003 law excludes weight-loss drugs from coverage under Medicare, the federal program that provides health coverage for older Americans. But since the American Medical Association recognized obesity as a disease in 2013, momentum has been building to shift federal policy.

“When Congress created the Medicare Part D drug benefit in 2003 the medical community’s understanding of obesity was in its infancy,” Nicole Ferreira, senior manager of corporate communications at Novo Nordisk, told The Hill in a written statement.

“Since then, the science has advanced, and we have learned obesity is a chronic, treatable disease — not simply a behavioral issue,” Ferreira wrote.

Sens. Tom Carper (D-Del.) and Bill Cassidy (R-La.) and Reps. Raul Ruiz (D-Calif.) and Brad Wenstrup (R-Ohio) reintroduced the Treat and Reduce Obesity Act, which would expand coverage of weight management medication to qualifying Medicare beneficiaries, before the August recess.

Novo Nordisk lobbies up

While the Treat and Reduce Obesity Act has stalled each time it’s been reintroduced over the last decade, drugmakers are capitalizing on several new factors to plead their case.

Public demand for the weight-loss drug is high and initial clinical trials recently suggested Wegovy reduces the risk of serious heart problems.

Qualifying federal employees are also now eligible for anti-obesity medication coverage, the U.S. Office of Personnel Management clarified in January.

“We recognize the progress made in covering anti-obesity medications; our goal is to have all Carriers offer adequate coverage,” the guidance reads.

From January through June 2023, Novo Nordisk spent nearly $2.9 million on federal lobbying for a range of policy issues including obesity drug coverage and the Treat and Reduce Obesity Act, according to federal lobbying data analyzed by the money-in-politics group OpenSecrets.

There are more lobbyists than ever on the Novo Nordisk payroll.

Sixty-three lobbyists, 44 of whom have swung through the so-called “revolving door” between the private sector and the government, registered to lobby on behalf of the drug maker in the first half of 2023, according to OpenSecrets data.

Novo Nordisk had 50 total lobbyists in 2022 and 28 in 2019.

Since the end of June, two new lobbying firms registered three new lobbyists to work on issues related to obesity on behalf of Novo Nordisk.

One of the new lobbyists is Bill Ghent, a member of the Subject Matters government relations team and former chief of staff to Carper, the bill’s lead sponsor. Ghent was Carper’s legislative director when the senator first introduced the bill in 2012.

Ghent did not return The Hill’s request for comment.

Shortages, cost concerns could derail momentum

Questions of cost and supply constraints are clouding the hype surrounding these new drugs.

The demand has not only made it harder for people to access the anti-obesity drug, but also for patients with diabetes to access the medication they need.

Wegovy and Ozempic are both injections that contain semaglutide, although the dosage per pen and regulator-approved uses differentiate the drugs.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Ozempic to treat type 2 diabetes in 2017 and the higher-dose Wegovy for weight loss in 2021.

Although Ozempic has not been approved for weight loss, it’s sometimes prescribed off-label — meaning for a purpose outside the one approved by the FDA — as demand for weight loss drugs soars. But off label usage is often not covered by insurers.

Demand for the drug has also outpaced supply, leading the FDA to note that Wegovy and Ozempic semaglutide injections are “currently in shortage.”

“We understand how frustrating this situation is for the communities we serve and appreciate everyone’s patience as we continue to navigate significant demand for Wegovy,” Ferreira said.

“Please know that our commitment to the obesity community is a long-term one and we are investing significantly to build capacity to meet this increasing demand.”

Could Medicare coverage help pricing?

It’s unclear how expanded Medicare coverage would impact already-high demand.

There’s also an ongoing debate on the cost of covering anti-obesity treatments, as the Congressional Budget Office has yet to officially score the Treat and Reduce Obesity Act.

Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center estimated that covering new anti-obesity medications for just 10 percent of Medicare beneficiaries could cost the federal program up to $26.8 billion per year and drive up premiums for drug plans.

But a study by the USC Schaeffer Center for Health Policy and Economics found Medicare coverage for obesity treatments could generate up to $245 billion in savings in the first 10 years, in part due to reducing co-morbidities associated with obesity, including heart attack and stroke.

“We’ve had to talk about things as so black and white, as either don’t cover it at all or give it to everybody, and I think that there is a middle ground,” Alison Sexton Ward, a research scientist with a doctorate in applied economics who worked on the study, told The Hill in an interview.

“A lot of this conversation is being lost by the list price,” Ward added.

Wegovy is prohibitively expensive without insurance, with the list price topping $1,300 per month. While most patients won’t pay the full list price after rebates or insurance, prices are up to 10 times higher in the U.S. than in other peer nations, a recent analysis by KFF found.

Many rebates also only apply to users who actually have diabetes.

“Novo Nordisk believes the most effective way for the millions of Americans who need anti-obesity medicines to be able to access and afford them is to ensure these medicines are covered by government and commercial insurance plans,” Ferreira said.

Health trade groups rally behind bill

A constellation of organizations including the American Diabetes Association (ADA), Weight Watchers and the Obesity Action Coalition are backing the bill.

“The ADA urges swift Congressional passage of this legislation so older Americans can access the services and treatment to reduce their risk for obesity and diabetes and improve their health,” said Lisa Murdock, the ADA’s chief advocacy officer, in a written statement.

The National Kidney Foundation, American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) and Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics are among the bill’s supporters that reported lobbying work on the bill during the first half of 2023, ahead of its reintroduction.

“Because many private insurance companies model their health benefits to reflect Medicare, the passage of the bipartisan TROA could lead to improved obesity care options for all Americans,” Dr. Rotonya Carr, chair of the AGA Government Affairs Committee, told The Hill in a written statement.

“The AGA fully supports this legislation and has no reservations about expanding obesity care coverage to the millions of Americans who suffer with obesity and its complications,” Carr wrote.

Notably, the pharmaceutical industry association PhRMA has not taken a position or lobbied on the bill.

“We appreciate the focus on helping seniors access the medicines they need. As the treatment paradigm for diseases and conditions advance, it’s critical to ensure Medicare coverage policies evolve as well,” PhRMA spokesperson Nicole Longo told The Hill.

Business, Health Care, Lobbying, Novo Nordisk, ozempic, Tom Carper, wegovy Novo Nordisk, the maker of the weight loss drug Wegovy and diabetes medication Ozempic, went on a federal lobbying spending spree in the first six months of 2023. The Danish drugmaker is pushing Congress to pass a bill that would nix Medicare restrictions on covering weight management treatments. Novo Nordisk has hired three new lobbying…

Business

How Trump’s Tariffs Could Hit American Wallets

Published

2 days ago

July 11, 2025

Bolanle Media Staff

As the debate over tariffs heats up ahead of the 2024 election, new analysis reveals that American consumers could face significant financial consequences if former President Donald Trump’s proposed tariffs are enacted and maintained. According to a recent report highlighted by Forbes, the impact could be felt across households, businesses, and the broader U.S. economy.

The Household Cost: Up to $2,400 More Per Year

Research from Yale University’s Budget Lab, cited by Forbes, estimates that the average U.S. household could pay an additional $2,400 in 2025 if the new tariffs take effect and persist. This projection reflects the cumulative impact of all tariffs announced in Trump’s plan.

Price Hikes Across Everyday Goods

The tariffs are expected to drive up consumer prices by 1.8% in the near term. Some of the hardest-hit categories include:

Apparel: Prices could jump 37% in the short term (and 18% long-term).
Footwear: Up 39% short-term (18% long-term).
Metals: Up 43%.
Leather products: Up 39%.
Electrical equipment: Up 26%.
Motor vehicles, electronics, rubber, and plastic products: Up 11–18%.
Groceries: Items like vegetables, fruits, and nuts could rise up to 6%, with additional increases for coffee and orange juice due to specific tariffs on Brazilian imports.

A Historic Tariff Rate and Economic Impact

If fully implemented, the effective tariff rate on U.S. consumers could reach 18%, the highest level since 1934. The broader economic consequences are also notable:

GDP Reduction: The tariffs could reduce U.S. GDP by 0.4% annually, equating to about $110 billion per year.
Revenue vs. Losses: While tariffs are projected to generate $2.2 trillion in revenue over the next decade, this would be offset by $418 billion in negative economic impacts.

How Businesses Are Responding

A KPMG survey cited in the report found that 83% of business leaders expect to raise prices within six months of tariff implementation. More than half say their profit margins are already under pressure, suggesting that consumers will likely bear the brunt of these increased costs.

What This Means for Americans

The findings underscore the potential for substantial financial strain on American families and businesses if Trump’s proposed tariffs are enacted. With consumer prices set to rise and economic growth projected to slow, the debate over tariffs is likely to remain front and center in the months ahead.

For more in-depth economic analysis and updates, stay tuned to Bolanlemedia.com.

Business

U.S. Limits Nigerian Non-Immigrant Visas to Three-Month Validity

Published

4 days ago

July 9, 2025

Bolanle Media Staff

In July 2025, the United States implemented significant changes to its visa policy for Nigerian citizens, restricting most non-immigrant and non-diplomatic visas to a single entry and a maximum validity of three months. This marks a departure from previous policies that allowed for multiple entries and longer stays, and has important implications for travel, business, and diplomatic relations between the two countries.

Key Changes in U.S. Visa Policy for Nigerians

Single-Entry, Three-Month Limit: As of July 8, 2025, most non-immigrant visas issued to Nigerians are now valid for only one entry and up to three months.
No Retroactive Impact: Visas issued prior to this date remain valid under their original terms.
Reciprocity Principle: The U.S. cited alignment with Nigeria’s own visa policies for U.S. citizens as the basis for these changes.
Enhanced Security Screening: Applicants are required to make their social media accounts public for vetting, and are subject to increased scrutiny for any signs of hostility toward U.S. institutions.

Rationale Behind the Policy Shift

Security and Immigration Integrity: The U.S. government stated the changes are intended to safeguard the immigration system and meet global security standards.
Diplomatic Reciprocity: These restrictions mirror the limitations Nigeria imposes on U.S. travelers, emphasizing the principle of fairness in international visa agreements.
Potential for Further Action: The U.S. has indicated that additional travel restrictions could be introduced if Nigeria does not address certain diplomatic and security concerns.

Nigeria’s Updated Visa Policy

Nigeria Visa Policy 2025 (NVP 2025): Introduced in May 2025, this policy features a new e-Visa system for short visits and reorganizes visa categories:
- Short Visit Visas (e-Visa): For business or tourism, valid up to three months, non-renewable, processed digitally within 48 hours.
- Temporary Residence Visas: For employment or study, valid up to two years.
- Permanent Residence Visas: For investors, retirees, and highly skilled individuals.
Visa Exemptions: ECOWAS citizens and certain diplomatic passport holders remain exempt.
Reciprocal Restrictions: Most short-stay and business visas for U.S. citizens are single-entry and short-term, reflecting reciprocal treatment.

Impact on Travelers and Bilateral Relations

Nigerian Travelers: Face increased administrative requirements, higher costs, and reduced travel flexibility to the U.S.
U.S. Travelers to Nigeria: Encounter similar restrictions, with most visas limited to single entry and short duration.
Diplomatic Tensions: Nigerian officials have called for reconsideration of the U.S. policy, warning of negative effects on bilateral ties and people-to-people exchanges.

Conclusion

The U.S. decision to limit Nigerian non-immigrant visas to three months highlights the growing complexity and reciprocity in global visa regimes. Both countries are tightening their policies, citing security and fairness, which underscores the need for travelers and businesses to stay informed and adapt to evolving requirements.

Business

Nicki Minaj Demands $200 Million from Jay-Z in Explosive Twitter Rant

Published

4 days ago

July 9, 2025

Bolanle Media Staff

Nicki Minaj has once again set social media ablaze, this time targeting Jay-Z with a series of pointed tweets that allege he owes her an eye-popping $200 million. The outburst has reignited debates about artist compensation, industry transparency, and the ongoing power struggles within hip-hop’s elite circles.

The $200 Million Claim

In a string of tweets, Minaj directly addressed Jay-Z, writing, “Jay-Z, call me to settle the karmic debt. It’s only collecting more interest. You still in my top five though. Let’s get it.” She went further, warning, “Anyone still calling him Hov will answer to God for the blasphemy.” According to Minaj, the alleged debt stems from Jay-Z’s sale of Tidal, the music streaming platform he launched in 2015 with a group of high-profile artists—including Minaj herself, J. Cole, and Rihanna.

When Jay-Z sold Tidal in 2021, Minaj claims she was only offered $1 million, a figure she says falls dramatically short of what she believes she is owed based on her ownership stake and contributions. She has long voiced dissatisfaction with the payout, but this is the most public—and dramatic—demand to date.

Beyond the Money: Broader Grievances

Minaj’s Twitter storm wasn’t limited to financial complaints. She also:

Promised to start a college fund for her fans if she receives the money she claims is owed.
Accused blogs and online creators of ignoring her side of the story, especially when it involves Jay-Z.
Warned content creators about posting “hate or lies,” saying, “They won’t cover your legal fees… I hope it’s worth losing everything including your account.”

She expressed frustration that mainstream blogs and platforms don’t fully cover her statements, especially when they involve Jay-Z, and suggested that much of the coverage she receives is from less reputable sources.

Satirical Accusations and Industry Critique

Minaj’s tweets took a satirical turn as she jokingly blamed Jay-Z for a laundry list of cultural grievances, including:

The state of hip-hop, football, basketball, and touring
The decline of Instagram and Twitter
Even processed foods and artificial dyes in candy

She repeatedly declared, “The jig is up,” but clarified that her statements were “alleged and for entertainment purposes only.”

Political and Cultural Criticism

Minaj also criticized Jay-Z’s political involvement, questioning why he didn’t campaign more actively for Kamala Harris or respond to President Obama’s comments about Black men. While Jay-Z has a history of supporting Democratic campaigns, Minaj’s critique centered on more recent events and what she perceives as a lack of advocacy for the Black community.

The Super Bowl and Lil Wayne

Adding another layer to her grievances, Minaj voiced disappointment that Lil Wayne was not chosen to perform at the Super Bowl in New Orleans, a decision she attributes to Jay-Z’s influence in the entertainment industry.

Public and Industry Reaction

Despite the seriousness of her financial claim, many observers note that if Minaj truly believed Jay-Z owed her $200 million, legal action—not social media—would likely follow. As of now, there is no public record of a lawsuit or formal complaint.

Some fans and commentators see Minaj’s outburst as part of a larger pattern of airing industry grievances online, while others interpret it as a mix of personal frustration and performance art. Minaj herself emphasized that her tweets were “for entertainment purposes only.”

Conclusion

Nicki Minaj’s explosive Twitter rant against Jay-Z has once again placed the spotlight on issues of artist compensation and industry dynamics. Whether her claims will lead to further action or remain another dramatic chapter in hip-hop’s ongoing soap opera remains to be seen, but for now, the world is watching—and tweeting.