Bill > H763

This bill establishes a special commission to investigate the feasibility of state-sponsored prescription drug manufacturing in Massachusetts. The commission will be composed of various state officials, healthcare professionals, and representatives from organizations like the Massachusetts Biotechnology Council and Massachusetts Health and Hospital Association. The commission's primary task is to study the potential for manufacturing commonly used pharmaceutical products such as insulin, naloxone, albuterol inhalers, and epinephrine, with a specific focus on providing these drugs to low-income residents at reduced or no cost. The commission will comprehensively assess various aspects of state-sponsored drug manufacturing, including potential cost savings, regulatory challenges, methods of drug distribution, opportunities for partnerships with universities and existing manufacturers, and the potential to address drug shortages. The study will also explore options like interstate compacts with other New England states and establishing a public entity to manage drug manufacturing and distribution. The commission is required to submit a detailed report with its findings and policy recommendations to the state legislature by September 1, 2026, examining numerous factors such as the number of low-income residents who need these drugs, potential long-term cost savings, administrative costs, and alternative methods of providing affordable medications.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H763