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 practices that deny or restrict the acquisition of drugs by contract pharmacies on behalf of covered entities, prohibit dispensing, require unnecessary data submissions, interfere with dispensing to eligible patients, or offer rebates not compliant with federal law.
Additionally, the bill clarifies that these prohibitions do not apply to the limited distribution of drugs as mandated by federal law. This legislative change aims to protect the rights of covered entities and contract pharmacies in accessing necessary medications while ensuring compliance with federal regulations.