Substitute Senate Bill No. 494 aims to tackle prescription drug shortages in Connecticut by establishing a task force responsible for identifying at-risk drugs and recommending mitigation strategies. The task force will include various members appointed by legislative leaders, with the House and Senate chairpersons of the human services committee serving as co-chairs. The bill modifies the task force's composition and sets staggered terms for members, while also expanding the Strategic Supply Chain Initiative under the Department of Economic and Community Development to include efforts to prevent drug shortages. The bill mandates that the task force hold its first meeting by September 1, 2026, and submit annual reports on its findings, with the first report due by January 1, 2027.

Additionally, the bill introduces new provisions regarding pharmaceutical rebates and the acquisition of 340B drugs. It establishes a rebate system for the Department of Social Services, requiring manufacturers to provide rebates equivalent to those under the Medicaid program and mandates a plan to increase supplemental rebates by at least 20% by July 1, 2026. The bill also prohibits manufacturers from denying access to 340B drugs for covered entities and imposes civil penalties of up to $50,000 for violations. The Commissioner of Consumer Protection is tasked with enforcing these regulations, which include new reporting obligations and requirements for manufacturers to confirm participation in rebate programs. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance drug availability and improve rebate negotiations while addressing the fiscal implications of these regulatory changes.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill:
HS Joint Favorable Substitute:
File No. 483: