Rhode Island Senate Bill S0106

Rhode Island 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/1/23
• Refer: 2/1/23

Caption

Control Of High Prescription Costs -- Regulation Of Pharmacy Benefit Managers

Impact

If enacted, S0106 will impose stricter guidelines on PBMs regarding their pricing practices, requiring greater transparency in drug pricing and prohibiting practices that lead to excessive costs for consumers. The legislation mandates that PBMs disclose accurate information to state authorities to allow for a thorough analysis of costs and benefits. The bill outlines specific harmful practices that PBMs must cease, including discriminatory reimbursements and excessive administrative hurdles that delay patient care. Additionally, the legislation aims for greater accountability by enforcing compliance through audits and allowing the attorney general to investigate and act against PBMs that fail to comply.

Summary

Bill S0106, titled 'Control of High Prescription Costs - Regulation of Pharmacy Benefit Managers', aims to introduce comprehensive regulations on pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) in Rhode Island. The bill recognizes the financial burdens that prescription medication places on consumers, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has exacerbated affordability issues. S0106 seeks to address the increasing control that PBMs have over prescription drug prices, where a small number of conglomerates dominate the market and influence pricing structures to the detriment of consumers and taxpayers. As stated, nearly 40% of Americans struggle to afford their medications, highlighting the necessity of this legislative action.

Contention

The introduction of S0106 is not without controversy, as it challenges the longstanding practices of PBMs and their affiliations with large healthcare companies. Proponents argue that it is a necessary step toward affordable healthcare and consumer protection, aiming to eliminate conflicts of interest and promote fair pricing. However, opponents may argue that increased regulation could disrupt existing practices that some stakeholders view as effective or necessary for managing drug costs. Additionally, there's concern about the bureaucratic implications of increased oversight, which could potentially complicate healthcare delivery rather than streamline it.