Senate Joint Resolution No. SJ 33.1, introduced by S. Vinton, requests an interim study on the prescription drug supply chain in Montana, focusing on pharmacy sustainability and the impacts on affordability and patient access. The resolution calls for the Legislative Council to designate an appropriate committee to examine the structure of the supply chain, including the roles of various stakeholders such as pharmacies, manufacturers, and health plans. The study aims to identify factors affecting pharmacy operations and patient accessibility, explore strategies to reduce costs, and assess best practices from other states regarding prescription drug affordability.

The resolution emphasizes the importance of transparency and stakeholder engagement throughout the study process, ensuring that all data used is aggregated and publicly available. It also mandates that any recommendations for statutory or regulatory changes must clearly outline their potential impact on patient access, cost implications, and the sustainability of independent pharmacies. The findings and recommendations from the study are to be presented to the 70th Legislature by September 15, 2026.