The proposed legislation, known as the "Pharmacy Nondiscrimination Act," aims to amend the Patient Protection Act of 1995 and establish regulations for pharmacy benefits managers (PBMs) in Arkansas. The bill mandates that PBMs must accept any pharmacy or pharmacist willing to comply with relevant and reasonable terms of participation, thereby ensuring fair access to pharmacy services and fostering competition. The act emphasizes the importance of including qualified pharmacies and pharmacists in PBM networks to enhance consumer choice and access to healthcare.

Key provisions of the bill include the definition of "healthcare provider" to explicitly include pharmacists and pharmacies, as well as the establishment of criteria for PBM network participation. The legislation prohibits PBMs from denying participation based on arbitrary or discriminatory practices and allows pharmacies or pharmacists to file complaints with the Insurance Commissioner if they believe they have been unjustly excluded. Additionally, the bill includes an emergency clause, highlighting the immediate need for equitable access to pharmacy care in Arkansas.

Statutes affected:
Old version SB103 V2 - 3-17-2025 02:25 PM: 23-99-203(d), 23-99-802(4)
Old version SB103 Original - 1-27-2025 09:03 AM: 23-99-203(d), 23-99-802(4)
SB 103: 23-99-203(d), 23-99-802(4)
Act 425: 23-99-203(d), 23-99-802(4)