Bill > SB598

This bill requires health care coverage providers to ensure that their drug formularies include at least one clinically appropriate nonopioid prescription drug as an alternative for each opioid prescription drug. The bill defines key terms such as "clinically appropriate" (supported by recognized medical guidelines) and "nonopioid prescription drug" (FDA-approved pain medication that is not an opioid). It mandates that coverage for nonopioid alternatives must be no more restrictive than the coverage for opioid drugs, including requirements for prior authorization, step therapy, cost-sharing, and other utilization review processes. The legislation applies to health benefit plans, health care service contracts, and multiple employer welfare arrangements issued or renewed after its effective date. Additionally, the bill includes provisions to increase expenditure limits for the Public Employees' Benefit Board and the Oregon Educators Benefit Board to support equitable nonopioid prescription drug coverage, with allocations of $541,508 and $258,652 respectively for the 2025-2027 biennium.

Budget and Finance, Education, Health and Social Services

https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2025R1/Measures/Overview/SB598