Bill > S00987

This bill aims to improve patient access to abuse-deterrent opioid medications by requiring insurance carriers and health plans to provide coverage for these specialized drugs. Specifically, the bill mandates that insurers include at least one abuse-deterrent opioid analgesic drug product per active ingredient on their formulary, with cost-sharing for these medications not exceeding the lowest cost-sharing levels for non-abuse-deterrent opioid drugs. An abuse-deterrent opioid drug is defined as a medication approved by the FDA with labeling that indicates its ability to deter or reduce potential drug abuse. The bill prohibits insurers from implementing prior authorization requirements that would force patients to use non-abuse-deterrent opioid products before accessing abuse-deterrent alternatives, and it specifically prevents insurance companies from increasing patient costs or creating disincentives for prescribers as a means of complying with the new requirements. The legislation is part of a broader effort to combat opioid abuse by making safer, more tamper-resistant pain medications more accessible and affordable. The act will take effect 120 days after becoming law and will apply to all insurance policies issued, renewed, or modified after that date.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S987