State Representative Nicole La Ha released the following statement following HB1697 being signed into law:
“Yesterday, the Prescription Drug Affordability Act was signed into law. I’m proud to be a cosponsor of this important legislation.
As a mom, a neighbor, and your State Representative, I’ve heard from too many families who are stretched thin…seniors choosing between groceries and prescriptions, parents worried about how to afford the medicine their kids need, and small-town pharmacists barely staying afloat. This new law is an important step toward changing that.
Pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) have operated behind the scenes for years, driving up costs while limiting choice. This law brings real accountability and real support.
It will:
Stop PBMs from steering patients to their own affiliated pharmacies
End the practice of “spread pricing” that hurts local pharmacies
Require all manufacturer rebates to go back to insurance plans instead of middlemen
Shine a light on PBM pricing practices through transparency
Provide up to $25 million a year in grants to support independent, rural, and underserved pharmacies
This law helps to make sure that families can afford the care they need and that trusted local pharmacies can continue serving their communities. I will continue to support our families and seniors every way I can.”
Rep. Nicole La Ha proudly serves the people of the 82nd District.
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