This week, Congress is back in session and will continue its role in addressing the opioid epidemic. While fighting the epidemic is going to be a top priority in Congress this work period, a renewed push for gun control and mental health will likely resurface in both chambers. We should also expect to hear more about market stabilization efforts as it relates to the individual market. While we’re already seeing dire predictions on the stability of the marketplace in 2019, these forecasts are dependent on potential Congressional action.

There’s also the DACA program and its looming deadlines that are testing the Democratic base. There’s also the issue of drug pricing which is playing out in state legislatures and will likely come up again this month. The Administration continues to raise the issue though the policy direction is unsettled. Finally, the budget deal puts drug manufacturers on the hook for closing the donut hole, making it an important issue to watch as the spending deal is finalized as manufacturers fight to roll that back.