Kansas Senate Bill SB284

Kansas 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/3/25
• Refer: 3/4/25
• Report Pass: 3/18/25
• Engrossed: 3/24/25

Caption

Enacting the defense of drug delivery act to prohibit manufacturer interference relating to 340B drug distribution.

Impact

The bill grants the Kansas Attorney General significant authority to investigate and penalize violations relating to the distribution of 340B drugs. This includes the ability to impose civil penalties of up to $50,000 for each violation, and the establishment of a Defense of Drug Delivery Fund to manage the fees collected from these penalties. The implications of this legislation may lead to increased oversight regarding how manufacturers interact with covered entities, thereby enhancing access to essential medications for those entities.

Summary

Senate Bill 284 establishes the Defense of Drug Delivery Act in Kansas, aimed at prohibiting manufacturer interference in the distribution of 340B drugs. The bill is particularly focused on protecting covered entities that participate in the federal 340B drug pricing program, which allows these entities to purchase medications at reduced prices. It outlines that manufacturers, wholesalers, and other related entities cannot deny or restrict the acquisition of these drugs by covered entities unless such actions are aligned with federal or state law.

Contention

Proponents of SB284 argue that the bill is essential for safeguarding access to affordable medications for vulnerable populations served by covered entities. They emphasize that without such protections, manufacturers could unfairly restrict access to necessary drugs, thereby undermining the intent of the 340B program. However, opponents express concerns about potential overreach and the implications of increased regulatory oversight on pharmaceutical companies, which could complicate the drug distribution process. As such, the bill highlights a broader debate about balancing corporate interests with public health objectives.