Relating to the delivery of prescription drugs for certain state health plans by mail order; providing an administrative penalty.
Impact
The bill will have a significant impact on state law regarding the operation of pharmacies and insurance policies related to prescription drug coverage. Particularly, it prohibits health benefit plans from mandating that enrollees only purchase prescriptions through mail order services, thereby fostering competition between mail order and community retail pharmacies. This approach could potentially enhance consumer choice and access to medications, while acknowledging the preference of many individuals for personal pharmacy interactions.
Summary
SB1433 is a legislative measure aimed at regulating the delivery of prescription drugs for specified state health plans via mail order. The bill seeks to ensure that health benefit plans allow enrollees the option to obtain a multiple-month supply of prescription drugs from community retail pharmacies on the same terms as those available through mail order pharmacies. This provision is intended to protect the interests of patients who prefer or require access to local pharmacy services over mailed deliveries.
Contention
This legislation may face points of contention, especially from stakeholders such as pharmacy benefit managers and mail order pharmacy companies, who may argue that this requirement could complicate operations or lead to increased costs. Additionally, the bill introduces the concept of administrative penalties for health benefit plans that fail to comply with its stipulations. The enforcement mechanisms and penalties could raise concerns about the balance of accountability between insurance providers and pharmacies, potentially leading to debates on the appropriateness and effectiveness of these measures.
A bill for an act relating to pharmacy benefits managers, pharmacies, prescription drugs, and pharmacy services administrative organizations, and including applicability provisions. (Formerly SSB 1074.) Effective date: 07/01/2025. Applicability date: 07/01/2025.