Why it Matters
Orchard Therapeutics North America Inc. is bringing lobbying in-house after years of working with external firms. The gene therapy company hired Christina Marie Hartman as their dedicated lobbyist, signaling a shift toward more direct government engagement. This move comes as Congress debates reimbursement policies for high-cost gene therapies.
By the Numbers
- In-house spending: $680,000 total reported since late 2024
- Focus areas: Medicare/Medicaid, Health Issues, and Pharmacy
- Previous firms: 8 external lobbying firms including McManus Group and Cornerstone Government Affairs Inc.
- Lobbyist background: Hartman previously represented Bluebird Bio Inc., a direct competitor, and the Alliance for Regenerative Medicine.
Broader Context
Congress is grappling with how to handle expensive gene therapies. Recent hearings have explored Medicare modernization and pharmacy benefit manager reforms. The FDA faces budget constraints that could affect innovative treatment reviews. Bipartisan rare disease caucuses are pushing for improved access to treatments.
The Agenda
Orchard focuses on newborn screening for rare diseases, particularly metachromatic leukodystrophy. The company lobbies for Medicare and Medicaid coverage of gene therapies. They support value-based payment models and pediatric access legislation like the Accelerating Kids’ Access to Care Act.
Competitive Landscape
The gene therapy lobbying space is crowded. Competitors include Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Novartis Corporation, and Bluebird Bio. Industry groups like the American Society of Gene & Cell Therapy are also active on similar issues.
Between The Lines
Key legislation includes the S.1637 – MVP Act, which would reform Medicaid value-based purchasing. Rep. Doris Matsui introduced the Scientific External Process for Educated Review of Therapeutics Act to improve FDA rare disease reviews. Sen. Tim Scott has championed sickle cell gene therapy access in healthcare roundtables. Rep. Vern Buchanan’s Chronic Disease Flexible Coverage Act passed the House.
The Bottom Line
Orchard’s in-house lobbying hire reflects the growing importance of direct government engagement for gene therapy companies. With strong congressional interest in rare diseases but concerns about costs, the company is positioning itself for key reimbursement battles ahead.
All data used in this article came from Legis1. Request a demo to learn more!