The "Defending Affordable Prescription Drug Costs Act" is a proposed legislation that seeks to protect 340B entities—participants in the federal 340B drug discount program—by ensuring they receive fair reimbursement rates for 340B drugs. The bill introduces new language into Title 5 of the General Laws, defining key terms related to the 340B program and setting forth prohibitions against discriminatory practices by health insurers, pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), and other third-party payors. These prohibitions include preventing lower reimbursement rates for 340B entities compared to non-340B entities, imposing different terms or conditions, requiring additional identification for 340B drugs, and engaging in practices that discriminate against 340B entities or interfere with patient choice.

The bill also addresses actions by pharmaceutical manufacturers, agents, or affiliates, prohibiting them from denying or interfering with the acquisition or delivery of 340B drugs to pharmacies contracted with 340B entities, unless such actions are prohibited by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Violations of these provisions are considered violations of the Rhode Island Deceptive Trade Practices Act, although no private or class action can be brought under this act. The bill ensures that its provisions are not less restrictive than federal law and do not conflict with applicable federal law, regulations, or compatible state laws. The act is designed to take effect upon passage, aiming to support affordable prescription drug costs and protect 340B entities from discriminatory practices.