Bill > LD1018

This bill establishes the "Protect Health Care for Rural and Underserved Communities Act" to prevent discrimination against pharmacies and healthcare providers participating in the 340B drug discount program, a federal program that allows certain healthcare organizations to purchase prescription drugs at discounted rates. The bill prohibits pharmaceutical manufacturers, health insurance carriers, and pharmacy benefits managers from interfering with 340B entities' ability to acquire, deliver, or be reimbursed for discounted drugs. Specifically, the bill prevents these entities from denying drug deliveries, requiring unnecessary claims data, imposing lower reimbursement rates, adding extra fees or administrative burdens, or interfering with patients' ability to receive drugs from 340B pharmacies. Manufacturers and third-party payors cannot discriminate against 340B entities by excluding them from networks, requiring additional documentation, or placing restrictions on drug delivery methods. The bill allows 340B entities to bring civil actions for violations and provides enforcement mechanisms under Maine's Unfair Trade Practices Act. Importantly, the bill explicitly does not apply to the MaineCare program and includes provisions ensuring it does not conflict with federal law or other state regulations. The legislation aims to protect rural and underserved healthcare providers' access to affordable prescription drugs by preventing discriminatory practices.

Health and Social Services

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=1018&snum=132