In Review: Legislative activity continues to intensify, with multiple bills advancing through hearings and amendments. Prior authorization (PA) legislation remains a key focus, with efforts underway to align HB 398 and HB 544 with several Senate PA bills. Recent hearings covered several bills, including HB 590, HB 774, HB 783, and SB 361, addressing issues such as PA for cancer treatment, psychiatric care, and terminally ill minors. Meanwhile, plans and PCMA members are advocating to table all but two PA policies, citing concerns that the proposed changes would weaken PA standards to the lowest in the nation.

Momentum is building around mandated GLP-1 coverage and the recently introduced omnibus PBM bill, HB 740, which covers dispensing fees, MAC lists, and affiliated pharmacies. Cost analyses for HB 740 are in development, and testimonies were presented on 11 bills between February 21-28. Additionally, efforts are underway to recruit allied partners from employer groups, labor organizations, and the Chamber of Commerce, while discussions continue with the state auditor and the Montana State Plan regarding the fiscal impact of HB 740.

If you have any questions, please contact Tonia Sorrell-Neal at tsorrell-neal@pcmanet.org.