Assembly Bill 54 aims to amend the statutes related to the Medical Assistance program by creating a new provision that prohibits the Department of Health Services (DHS) from imposing utilization management controls on antipsychotic prescription drugs that are approved by the federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Utilization management controls are techniques used to assess the medical necessity and appropriateness of prescription drugs, which can include methods like prior authorization and step therapy protocols. The bill emphasizes the importance of ensuring access to these essential medications for individuals with limited financial resources who rely on the Medical Assistance program.

The new legal language introduced in the bill defines "utilization management controls" and specifies that the DHS cannot impose such controls on any FDA-approved antipsychotic drugs. This legislative change is intended to enhance the availability of necessary treatments for individuals suffering from mental health conditions, thereby improving their overall health outcomes and quality of life.