Bill > SF1947

This bill modifies Minnesota's preferred drug list regulations to ensure that nonopioid pain medications are not disadvantaged or discouraged compared to opioid medications. Specifically, the bill prohibits the state commissioner from creating policies that would make nonopioid pain drugs less accessible than opioid drugs. This includes preventing situations where opioid drugs are automatically preferred or where nonopioid drugs face more restrictive utilization management protocols (such as more complicated prior authorization or step therapy requirements). The bill applies immediately to any nonopioid drug approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for pain treatment, regardless of whether it has been formally reviewed by the state's Formulary Committee. Before making changes to the drug list, the commissioner must consider potential public health implications and the impact on health disparities, and must conduct a public hearing with at least 30 days' notice. The goal appears to be promoting alternative pain management options and ensuring patients have fair access to nonopioid pain treatment medications.

Health and Social Services

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&f=SF1947&ssn=0&y=2025