The Lowering the Cost of Prescription Drugs Act of 2026 aims to reduce prescription drug costs for all residents of the District of Columbia, regardless of their insurance status. The bill authorizes the Mayor to establish a drug discount card program by entering into a cooperative purchasing agreement with a prescription drug discount program, which may include a multi-state non-profit consortium. This initiative is designed to leverage collective purchasing power to secure lower prices on medications, thereby addressing the public health crisis posed by high prescription drug costs that burden families, seniors, and individuals with chronic illnesses.

The legislation mandates that the Department of Health implement this program to ensure access to lower-cost prescription drugs for all District residents, including those with public or private insurance and those without any insurance. The Mayor is also granted the authority to issue rules for the implementation of the act. This bill is seen as a critical step in improving health outcomes and economic stability for residents by making medications more affordable and accessible.