Bill > S0114

This bill establishes the "Defending Affordable Prescription Drug Costs Act," which protects 340B drug discount program participants from discriminatory practices by health insurers, pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), pharmaceutical manufacturers, and other third-party payors. The bill defines key terms like 340B drugs (medications with reduced prices under a federal program) and 340B covered entities (organizations participating in the drug discount program), and prohibits these entities from engaging in various discriminatory actions. Specifically, the bill prevents payors from establishing lower reimbursement rates for 340B drugs, imposing unique fees or audit requirements, denying network participation, interfering with contract pharmacy choices, or creating additional patient charges based on 340B status. Pharmaceutical manufacturers are also barred from restricting drug acquisition or delivery to 340B contract pharmacies. The bill requires 340B covered entities to submit annual reports detailing their program participation, including drug acquisition costs, payment amounts, and how program savings benefit patients. Violations are considered deceptive trade practices, and the state auditor general is empowered to investigate complaints and enforce compliance. The act will take effect on October 1, 2025, and does not apply to the Medicaid program.

Health and Social Services

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