Bill > HB562

This bill aims to protect the 340B drug pricing program in Hawaii by preventing drug manufacturers from restricting healthcare providers' use of contract pharmacies. Specifically, the bill prohibits 340B covered entities (such as nonprofit hospitals, community health centers, and Native Hawaiian health centers) from entering into contracts with drug manufacturers that limit their ability to use contract pharmacies, which are particularly important in rural areas where patients might otherwise struggle to access medications. The bill voids contract provisions based on the maximum allowable cost payment model and authorizes the attorney general to bring civil actions against entities that violate these provisions. By doing so, the legislation seeks to preserve the financial benefits of the 340B program, which allows healthcare providers to reinvest savings into community health services, and ensure that low-income and uninsured populations can continue to access affordable medications. The bill defines key terms like "contract pharmacy" and "340B drug" and will take effect upon approval, though it does not impact rights, penalties, or proceedings that existed before its effective date.

Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=562&year=2026