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Committee defers PBM reform bill tied to pharmacy reimbursement
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Summary
House Bill 919, part of a package of pharmacy benefit manager reforms intended to shore up independent pharmacies by adjusting Medicaid dispensing fees, was deferred by the committee for further consideration.
Chairman Talbot opened discussion on House Bill 919 and invited Representative Echols to describe the bill as part of a broader PBM reform package aimed at preserving independent pharmacy networks. Echols said HB 919 would set a Medicaid dispensing‑fee schedule tied to the Medicaid fee schedule plus NAIDAC plus 2% to help independent pharmacies cover costs after a recent wave of closures.
Committee members read into the record multiple cards in support (independent pharmacy associations and local pharmacists) and opposition (PBM and national insurer representatives). Chair Talbot moved to defer the bill and the committee left HB 919 in committee to allow additional work among stakeholders.
