S.B. No. 493 is a legislative bill aimed at enhancing the protection of disclosures and communications made by pharmacists and pharmacies regarding prescription drug benefits. The bill introduces a new section, 4151.155, to the Insurance Code, which prohibits pharmacy benefit managers from restricting pharmacists or pharmacies from informing enrollees about the differences in out-of-pocket costs for prescription drugs under their benefits versus the costs without submitting a claim. Additionally, any contractual provision that limits these communications is deemed void and unenforceable.

The bill also allows pharmacists and pharmacies to communicate freely with plan sponsors or administrators about various aspects of prescription drug benefits, including member services, network access, and reimbursement opportunities. The changes outlined in this bill will apply only to contracts or agreements that are entered into, amended, or renewed after the effective date of the Act, which is set for September 1, 2025.

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