Bill > S2409

This bill aims to improve pharmaceutical access, costs, and transparency. Key provisions include: This bill defines key pharmaceutical terms like "biosimilar," "brand name drug," "generic drug," "early notice," "pharmaceutical manufacturing company," and "pharmacy benefit manager." It includes these entities in various oversight and reporting requirements by the Health Policy Commission and Center for Health Information and Analysis. The bill creates an academic detailing program to promote evidence-based, cost-effective prescription drug utilization. It requires pharmaceutical companies to provide early notice to the state on new drugs, generics, and price increases over 20%. The bill also establishes a process for the state to review and address the pricing of certain high-cost drugs. The bill requires pharmacy benefit managers to be licensed and regulated, including reporting requirements to the state. It also mandates audits of pharmacy benefit managers by health insurance carriers. The bill includes provisions to cap insulin co-pays at $25 per month and study the impact, as well as evaluate emergency insulin access and coverage for medically necessary epinephrine injectors. Overall, this bill aims to increase oversight, transparency, and affordability of prescription drugs in the state.

Budget and Finance

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/191/S2409