Bill > SB1509

This bill requires the Legislative Reference Bureau (LRB), a state agency that provides research and drafting support to the legislature, to conduct a comprehensive study focused on pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) and prescription drug costs. Specifically, the study will examine two key areas: first, assessing the standards and regulations that other states have implemented regarding PBMs, which are third-party administrators that manage prescription drug benefits for health insurance plans; and second, reviewing best practices that can potentially reduce prescription drug costs and increase transparency within the health insurance system. The LRB must complete the study and submit a detailed report to the legislature at least twenty days before the start of the 2026 regular legislative session, including its findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation. While the bill is technically effective on December 31, 2050, the study and report are intended to be completed much sooner, in preparation for the 2026 legislative session, with the goal of potentially informing future policy decisions about PBM regulation and prescription drug pricing.

Business and Industry, Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1509&year=2026