In Review: On Tuesday, June 25, PCMA participated in an interesting party meeting in Columbus on House Bill 505. The bill, known as “The Community Pharmacy Protection Act,” relates to reimbursement and dispensing fees, accreditation, reporting requirements, and establishing a private right of action. In attendance was PCMA and several member companies, independent pharmacy groups, a former state senator from Arkansas (who we think is getting paid to go to states to advocate against PBMs), the Ohio Chamber, NFIB, Walgreens, OAHP, AHIP, and the Hematology Oncology Society.

The discussion started with the proponents outlining why they support the bill, then moved to the opponents, where we got a chance to highlight our concerns. Interestingly, the proponents were unable to speak to the specific provisions of the bill but took their opportunity to share stories and anecdotes denigrating PBMs. The meeting seemed to confuse Chairman Brian Lampton (R) about the intricacies of the drug supply chain and ended with him requesting more detailed information from the interested parties. There was also some confusion by the bill sponsor on what his bill achieved, though he did mention his goal is price transparency throughout the entire drug supply chain, and he is interested in adding an amendment to license PBMs.

Up Next: After 1.5 hours, Chair Lampton indicated it would be best to have another meeting to continue discussions. The legislature is now on summer recess and we do not expect they will return until September or post General Election.

If you have any questions, please contact Sean Stephenson at sstephenson@pcmanet.org.