Texas Senate Bill SB1330

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to examination of pharmacy benefit managers by the commissioner of insurance; authorizing an assessment.

Impact

If enacted, SB 1330 will amend Chapter 4151 of the Texas Insurance Code to include provisions that allow the commissioner of insurance to examine the records of PBMs. This aims to enforce compliance with applicable regulations, thereby enhancing oversight in the healthcare sector. The assessment fees collected from PBMs will cover expenses related to the examination process, including salaries and other costs incurred by the department. This financial mechanism helps to fund regulatory activities without placing a burden on state finances.

Summary

Senate Bill 1330 relates to the examination of pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) by the commissioner of insurance and authorizes an assessment to cover the costs associated with such examinations. The bill aims to ensure compliance of PBMs with specific chapters of the Texas Insurance Code, particularly those addressing health benefit plans. This represents a proactive approach to regulation within the state’s healthcare system and aims to protect the interests of health benefit plan issuers, enrollees, pharmacists, and pharmacies.

Contention

Although the bill is largely supportive of increased regulation to safeguard consumers and maintain fair practices in the healthcare sector, there may be concerns from PBMs regarding the costs imposed by such assessments and the potential for confidentiality issues with the records examined. PBMs may view the increased oversight as an encroachment on their operational autonomy. Additionally, there could be a debate regarding the effectiveness of such examinations and whether they will genuinely lead to improvements in compliance and consumer protection, especially considering the complexities and varying interpretations of healthcare regulations.