In Review: Last week marked the second deadline in Mississippi, bringing the total of dead PBM measures to 29. Unfortunately, SB 2677, which is the anti-PBM bill filed by the Pharmacists and the Board of Pharmacy, is still in play. PCMA is working with the Mississippi Manufacturers Association and the Mississippi Economic Council to educate legislators in the House on the negative impact on employers and plan sponsors if they are to move SB 2677. HB 1123 by Speaker Jason White (D) has not moved since passing out of the House, but with the cross-over deadline passed, PCMA anticipates the Speaker’s bill moving soon. As you will recall, HB 1123 contains a narrow ban on spread and transparency requirements for PBMs, PhRMA, and PASOs. While HB 1123 is not ideal, it is a significant improvement over all other PBM bills filed over the last five sessions in Jackson.

Finally, the companion measures related to white bagging have passed out of both Chambers. PCMA is working with the Mississippi Health Plan Association to amend both bills to include language that prevents hospitals from inflating prices on patients and plan sponsors.

Up Next: The next few weeks in Jackson are critical as we approach the next deadline. PCMA will work with our members and coalition partners to keep SB 2677 out of committee in the House.

If you have any questions, please contact Michael Power at mpower@pcmanet.org.