Connecticut expands Strategic Supply Chain Initiative to combat prescription drug shortages

The Connecticut State Legislature introduced Senate Bill 11 on April 2, 2025, aimed at addressing critical shortages in prescription drugs and enhancing the state's healthcare infrastructure. The bill proposes the establishment of a task force to identify drugs at risk of shortage and develop strategies to mitigate these shortages, including increasing in-state production of essential medications.

A key provision of the bill is the expansion of the Strategic Supply Chain Initiative, managed by the Department of Economic and Community Development. This initiative will focus on bolstering local companies' production capacities and attracting supply chain operations from outside the state. The initiative aims to incorporate recommendations from the newly formed task force to prevent or mitigate prescription drug shortages.

Additionally, the bill mandates the creation of a Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee by the Commissioner of Public Health. This committee will coordinate seasonal vaccine production with pharmaceutical manufacturers and include representatives from various sectors, such as large and small pharmaceutical companies, health systems, and experts in infectious diseases and immunology.

Debates surrounding Senate Bill 11 have highlighted concerns about the feasibility of increasing local production and the potential economic implications for pharmaceutical companies. Supporters argue that the bill is crucial for ensuring a stable supply of essential medications, particularly in light of recent shortages exacerbated by global supply chain disruptions. Critics, however, question whether the proposed measures will effectively address the underlying issues contributing to these shortages.

The bill's passage could have significant implications for Connecticut's healthcare system, potentially improving access to necessary medications and enhancing the state's ability to respond to public health emergencies. As the bill moves through the legislative process, stakeholders will be closely monitoring its developments and the potential impact on both the local economy and public health outcomes.