The bill, S.B. No. 493, introduces a new subchapter to the Texas Insurance Code that establishes protections for pharmacists and pharmacies regarding disclosures about prescription drug costs. Specifically, it prohibits health benefit plan issuers and pharmacy benefit managers from restricting pharmacists or pharmacies from informing enrollees about the differences in out-of-pocket costs for prescription drugs when not submitting a claim under the enrollee's health benefit plan. This aims to enhance transparency and empower consumers to make informed decisions about their medication costs.

Additionally, the bill outlines the applicability of these provisions to various types of health benefit plans, including those for small employers, Medicaid, and other specific coverage types. It also includes definitions for key terms such as "enrollee" and "prescription drug." The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, and includes a provision allowing for the delay of implementation if a federal waiver or authorization is required.

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