Two bills that address breast cancer imaging and metastatic step therapy in the Iowa Legislature have earned praise from the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. Both bills are sponsored by Sen. Annette Sweeney, R-Buckeye, and have not yet been discussed in their assigned subcommittees. SF136 would eliminate out-of-pocket costs for diagnostic breast imaging following an abnormal mammogram, and SF116 would prohibit the use of step therapy protocols for metastatic breast cancer patients. “This legislation is an important step forward for women in Iowa,” said Molly Guthrie, senior director of public policy and advocacy at Susan G. Komen. “We see firsthand that women face hundreds to thousands of dollars in out-of-pocket costs for needed diagnostic imaging. As a result, many women do not seek care until the cancer has spread – making it deadlier and more expensive to treat. A woman should not have to choose between paying her electric bill or getting a medically necessary ultrasound. This life-saving legislation will ensure timely access to diagnosis and treatment.”