This bill establishes a Prescription Drug Purchasing Program under the authority of the commissioner of human services in Minnesota. 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. The bill also outlines the authority of the commissioner to develop a preferred drug list and manage a drug formulary, as well as the requirement to enroll pharmacies willing to participate in the program.
Additionally, the bill mandates the commissioner to seek necessary federal approvals for the program's implementation and requires recommendations for expanding the program to include health plan company enrollees. These recommendations must be developed in consultation with the commissioners of commerce and health and presented to relevant legislative committees by December 15, 2027. The effective date for the program is set for January 1, 2027, or upon federal approval, whichever is later.