Senate advances bill requiring reporting from entities participating in 340B drug discount program

The Idaho Senate on March 20 passed House Bill 136, requiring entities that participate in the federal 340B drug discount program to provide information to state officials about discounted drug purchases and sales so Idaho can track how program savings are used.

Sponsor Senator Biokhin described 340B as a large federal drug‑discount program and said the bill is designed to collect basic information so policymakers can determine whether discounted purchases are fulfilling their intended purpose for indigent and Medicaid populations. Biokhin said the program’s purchases totaled roughly $66.3 billion nationally in 2023 and that federal oversight has audited only a small share of participating entities.

Biokhin said the bill is not an accusation and is intended to give Idaho data to understand where discounts or profits flow and how that relates to patient benefit. He said the bill calls for entities to provide information to the attorney general, the state controller and the Department of Health and Welfare.

Floor debate on the measure was limited; proponents said transparency will help policymakers decide whether to expand or limit participation, and noted a complex federal background where pharmacies, hospitals and PBMs interact. After brief discussion, the Senate roll call showed 32 in favor with 3 against; the majority having voted in the affirmative. House Bill 136, as amended, passed the Senate and will be returned to the House of Representatives.