The bill, HB 358, introduces several amendments to the existing laws governing pharmacy operations and pharmacy benefit managers in Louisiana. It allows licensed pharmacy technicians to access a pharmacy's software system or dispensing information system remotely, provided that the pharmacy implements controls to protect the privacy and security of confidential records. Additionally, the bill stipulates that no pharmacy software can be duplicated, downloaded, or removed by a pharmacy technician. The Louisiana Board of Pharmacy is tasked with promulgating rules to implement these changes.

Furthermore, the bill prohibits the Louisiana Board of Pharmacy from granting or renewing a permit to operate a pharmacy to any entity that is wholly or partially owned or controlled by a pharmacy benefit manager or its subsidiary. While the bill maintains that pharmacy benefit managers must still obtain a permit to operate in accordance with existing law, it clarifies that the Board will continue to regulate them under the current framework. The new provisions will take effect on January 1, 2027.

Statutes affected:
HB358 Original:
HB358 Engrossed: