The "Defending Affordable Prescription Drug Costs Act" (House Bill 1281) seeks to protect entities participating in the 340B Drug Pricing Program in Florida by prohibiting discriminatory practices from drug manufacturers, health insurance issuers, health maintenance organizations (HMOs), and pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs). The bill establishes new sections in Florida Statutes that define 340B drugs and entities, outlining specific prohibitions such as preventing lower reimbursement rates for 340B entities compared to non-340B entities, and restricting additional terms or conditions that could disadvantage 340B entities. It also prohibits requiring specific identifiers for claims related to 340B drugs unless mandated by federal agencies and ensures that patients can choose to receive drugs from 340B entities without interference.

Violations of these provisions are classified as deceptive and unfair trade practices under the Florida Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act, which subjects violators to penalties. The bill emphasizes that its provisions will not be less restrictive than federal law and clarifies that limited distribution of certain drugs under risk evaluation and mitigation strategies does not constitute a violation. The legislation is set to take effect on July 1, 2026, and aims to ensure fair treatment and reimbursement for 340B entities, thereby supporting their ability to provide affordable medications to patients.