The bill amends Section 33-32-221 of the Montana Code Annotated to prohibit health insurance issuers from performing prior authorization on certain psychiatric drugs. Specifically, it adds a new provision that prevents prior authorization for any prescription drug, whether generic or brand name, that is designated as being in shortage. This amendment aims to ensure that patients have timely access to necessary medications that may be difficult to obtain due to supply issues.

Additionally, the bill establishes that the list of psychiatric drugs in shortage will be determined quarterly based on the official shortage list published by the United States Food and Drug Administration. It also includes a provision that prohibits manufacturers of these drugs from engaging in predatory pricing or marketing practices related to the shortages, with violations subject to enforcement under existing laws. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance access to essential psychiatric medications while safeguarding against exploitative practices during shortages.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 33-32-221
SB0317_1(1): 33-32-221
SB0317_1(2): 33-32-221
SB0317_1(3): 33-32-221
SB0317_1(4): 33-32-221
SB0317_1(5): 33-32-221
SB0317_1: 33-32-221
SB0317_2(1): 33-32-221
SB0317_2(10): 33-32-221
SB0317_2(2): 33-32-221
SB0317_2(3): 33-32-221
SB0317_2(4): 33-32-221
SB0317_2(5): 33-32-221
SB0317_2(6): 33-32-221
SB0317_2(7): 33-32-221
SB0317_2(8): 33-32-221
SB0317_2(9): 33-32-221
SB0317_2: 33-32-221
SB0317_X(1): 33-32-221
SB0317_X(2): 33-32-221
SB0317_X: 33-32-221