Senate committee hears bill to broaden state law on interchangeable biologics to lower drug costs

A Senate Health and Human Services committee heard testimony on House Bill 117, brought by Rep. Erica Leon, that would change New Hampshire law to broaden the state27s language about interchangeable biologic products and make statute less dependent on a specific federal "interchangeable" designation.

The measure is intended to make the state27s pharmacy substitution rules responsive to future federal changes and to encourage use of biosimilars, lower‑cost alternatives to brand biologic drugs. "One of the biggest issues our constituents face is the cost of medications, especially biologics," Rep. Erica Leon (Rockingham 13) said in opening remarks, adding that the change could reduce what she called "financial toxicity" for patients and produce modest savings for state programs.

Supporters said biosimilars approved for use carry similar safety profiles to reference biologics and can reduce cost. "We27re advocating for effective policies to promote success of the marketplace, with biosimilars so…