This bill proposes the addition of a new subsection to section 43-15.3-08 of the North Dakota Century Code, which outlines prohibited acts for drug manufacturers regarding their interactions with contract pharmacies and covered entities. The bill defines key terms such as "contract pharmacy," "covered entity," and "drug," specifically relating to those participating in federal drug discount programs. It establishes that it is a class B misdemeanor for manufacturers or their affiliates to engage in certain prohibited actions, including denying or interfering with the acquisition of drugs by contract pharmacies on behalf of covered entities, restricting dispensing of drugs, and requiring unnecessary data submissions as a condition for drug access.
Additionally, the bill clarifies that these prohibitions do not apply to the limited distribution of drugs as mandated by federal law. The intent of this legislation is to protect the ability of covered entities and contract pharmacies to access and dispense necessary medications without undue restrictions imposed by manufacturers.