Why it Matters
Bristol-Myers Squibb has expanded its Washington influence by adding Williams & Jensen PLLC to its roster of lobbying firms. The pharmaceutical giant already works with multiple firms but chose Williams & Jensen for its deep healthcare policy expertise. This comes as Congress intensifies scrutiny of drug pricing and patent practices.
By the Numbers
Bristol-Myers Squibb has lobbied consistently since 2003 across multiple policy areas. The company currently works with several firms including Public Strategies Washington Inc., Nickles Group LLC, and Crossroads Strategies LLC.
Four Williams & Jensen lobbyists will represent Bristol-Myers Squibb:
- Susan B. Hirschmann, former House Republican Whip Chief of Staff
- Robert Butora, former health policy adviser to Sen. Bill Cassidy
- Walter Kurt Schrader
- Jeanne M. Haggerty, former staffer on House Energy and Commerce Committee
Broader Context
The pharmaceutical industry faces mounting pressure as Congress examines drug costs and pricing transparency. Multiple committees have held hearings on biosimilar competition, pharmacy benefit manager reform, and domestic manufacturing. The Inflation Reduction Act’s drug pricing provisions remain a focal point for industry pushback.
The Agenda
Bristol-Myers Squibb’s lobbying focuses on healthcare policy, drug pricing, intellectual property protection, and tax issues. The company has historically engaged on Medicare Parts B and D, patent reform, biosimilars, and international trade agreements. Williams & Jensen’s expertise in tax, trade, and healthcare policy aligns with these priorities.
Competitive Landscape
Other major pharmaceutical companies are equally active in Washington. Eli Lilly & Co., Pfizer Inc., Viatris Inc., and Novo Nordisk Inc. have all filed recent lobbying registrations. The industry’s main trade group, PhRMA, continues extensive advocacy efforts.
Between The Lines
Congress is advancing multiple bills affecting the pharmaceutical sector. The S.229 – DTC Act of 2025 would require drug cost disclosure in consumer ads. The S.526 – Pharmacy Benefit Manager Transparency Act of 2025 targets PBM practices.
Democratic senators including Sen. Tammy Baldwin and Sen. Peter Welch push for expanded Medicare price negotiation. Sen. Bernie Sanders and Sen. Angus King have introduced legislation banning prescription drug advertisements.
Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick has highlighted collaboration with Bristol-Myers Squibb leadership on innovation policies.
The Bottom Line
Bristol-Myers Squibb’s addition of Williams & Jensen strengthens its Washington presence as pharmaceutical policy battles intensify. The firm’s congressional connections and healthcare expertise provide additional leverage in ongoing debates over drug pricing and patent reform.
All data used in this article came from Legis1. Request a demo to learn more!
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