Senate Bill 1256 aims to facilitate the importation of safe and effective prescription drugs from Canada to Tennessee. The bill mandates that by January 1, 2026, the Department of Finance and Administration, in collaboration with the Department of Health and the Division of TennCare, must submit a request to the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services for approval to import these drugs. The request must demonstrate compliance with federal and state safety standards, include a list of proposed drugs with potential cost savings, and identify Canadian suppliers that adhere to relevant laws and regulations.

Upon receiving federal approval, the Department of Finance and Administration is required to notify key state officials and, within six months, submit a proposal for implementing the importation program. The bill also grants the department the authority to create rules to carry out this initiative, ensuring adherence to the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act. This act will take effect upon becoming law, emphasizing the importance of public welfare in its implementation.