Bill > SB5981

This bill aims to protect the integrity of the federal 340B drug pricing program, which provides discounted outpatient medications to eligible healthcare providers serving low-income and uninsured populations, by prohibiting drug manufacturers from restricting how these providers access and dispense these discounted drugs through contract pharmacies. Specifically, the bill defines key terms like "340B drug," "covered entity," and "manufacturer," and establishes that manufacturers or their representatives cannot deny, restrict, or prohibit the acquisition or delivery of 340B drugs to covered entities or their contracted pharmacies, nor can they demand data beyond what federal law requires as a condition for providing these drugs. Furthermore, the bill allows covered entities to file civil lawsuits against manufacturers for violations, seeking penalties of up to $5,000 per day per violation, and empowers the state's Attorney General to enforce these provisions under the Consumer Protection Act. To enhance transparency, covered entities that are federally qualified health centers or certain hospitals must annually report detailed financial and operational data related to their participation in the 340B program, including drug acquisition costs, dispensed amounts, savings, and how those savings are used for community benefits, with penalties for non-compliance. The bill also allows for the collection of filing fees to support the administration of this reporting system and amends existing laws to align definitions and reporting requirements, ensuring that the 340B program continues to support vital healthcare services for vulnerable populations.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5981&Year=2025&Initiative=false