Bill > S517

This bill establishes new regulations for 340B Covered Entities (healthcare organizations that can purchase discounted drugs through a federal program) in North Carolina, focusing on fair pricing and transparency. The bill introduces two main parts: first, it requires hospitals participating in the 340B Drug Pricing Program to not charge patients more than the acquisition cost for 340B drugs, treating any violation as an unfair trade practice. Second, it mandates annual reporting requirements where covered entities must disclose detailed financial information about 340B drug purchases, including aggregate acquisition costs, payments received, prescription volumes, and whether they pass discounts to patients. Covered entities must report on charity care, payments to contracted pharmacies, and third-party administrative costs. These reports will be publicly posted by the North Carolina Department of Health, providing transparency into how these organizations use the federal drug pricing program. The first report under the transparency requirements is due by October 1, 2026, and the law applies to 340B drugs dispensed on or after the bill's enactment. The 340B Program, established under federal law, allows certain healthcare providers to purchase outpatient drugs at significantly reduced prices to help them serve vulnerable populations.

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/S517