This bill aims to amend the West Virginia Code to allow the Public Employees Insurance Agency (PEIA) and the Department of Human Services (DHS) to participate in federal prescription drug pricing programs. Specifically, it adds new provisions to Chapter 5, Article 16, and introduces a new section in Chapter 9, Article 5. The bill authorizes PEIA and DHS to engage in various arrangements related to prescription drug pricing, including direct purchasing agreements with pharmaceutical manufacturers and participation in federally negotiated pricing arrangements. Participation in these programs is voluntary and contingent upon the responsible agency determining that it is in the state's best financial interest without compromising beneficiary access to necessary medications.

Additionally, the bill outlines that both PEIA and DHS must report annually to the Joint Committee on Government and Finance regarding their participation in these federal programs, estimated cost savings, and any access or administrative issues encountered. The legislation also clarifies that it does not require the state to adopt a federal formulary, nor does it limit the state's authority to manage its own pharmacy benefits or conflict with federal Medicaid requirements.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 5-16-19, 9-5-34