Bill > A09184

This bill addresses potential conflicts of interest in the pharmaceutical and insurance industries by prohibiting any person or entity from simultaneously owning or controlling an insurance company, a pharmacy benefits manager (PBM), and a pharmacy. A PBM is a third-party administrator that manages prescription drug programs for health plans, negotiating costs and medication access. The bill defines "indirect control" broadly, encompassing any agreement, arrangement, contract, or ownership stake that allows an owner to influence the operations of these entities. Specifically, the legislation requires any person or entity with overlapping control to divest their interests in one or more of these entities within three years of the law's effective date. To enforce compliance, the Attorney General is empowered to bring civil actions against violators, with potential penalties of $10,000 per day of violation, plus the recovery of legal costs and attorneys' fees. The bill aims to prevent potential market manipulation and ensure fair competition in the healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors by creating clear boundaries between insurance companies, pharmacy benefit managers, and pharmacies.

Business and Industry

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A9184