This bill establishes a Prescription Drug Purchasing Program under the authority of the commissioner of human services in Minnesota, as outlined in the newly proposed section [256B.86]. The program aims to provide prescription drugs to medical assistance and MinnesotaCare enrollees at the lowest possible prices while promoting health through discounted drug purchases and comprehensive benefit services. The commissioner is tasked with maintaining a list of effective prescription drugs, administering benefits, and negotiating prices with manufacturers and wholesalers. Additionally, the bill allows the commissioner to set terms for pharmacy participation and mandates the enrollment of all pharmacies that accept these terms. Furthermore, the bill directs the commissioner to seek federal approval for the program's implementation and requires the development of recommendations for expanding the program to include enrollees of health plan companies. These recommendations must address the contracting process with health plan companies for administering prescription drug benefits and managing a drug formulary. The commissioner is required to present these recommendations to relevant legislative committees by December 15, 2027. The program is set to take effect on January 1, 2027, or upon federal approval, whichever is later.