The bill establishes a Minnesota Prescription Drug Purchasing Program, which will be administered by the commissioner of human services. This program aims to provide prescription drugs to medical assistance and MinnesotaCare enrollees at the lowest possible cost. The commissioner is tasked with various duties, including maintaining a list of effective prescription drugs, administering benefits, and negotiating prices with manufacturers and wholesalers. The program will also require pharmacies to enroll and accept the terms set by the commissioner. The implementation of this program is contingent upon federal approval and is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, or upon receiving such approval.
Additionally, the bill mandates the commissioner to develop recommendations for expanding the program to include enrollees from health plan companies that contract with the state. This expansion will involve outlining the process for contracting with these companies to manage prescription drug benefits and formulary development. A report detailing these recommendations is required to be submitted to relevant legislative committees by December 15, 2026.