Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Prescription Drugs topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
House backs bill to join multi‑state prescription discount card program; $50,000 start‑up appropriation included
Summary
Lawmakers voted to amend and order third reading of H577, which would let Vermont join the Array RX prescription discount card program, fund initial implementation with a one‑time $50,000 appropriation to the Treasurer, and require implementation and reporting timelines. Supporters highlighted savings for uninsured and underinsured Vermonters.
The Vermont House on Tuesday amended and ordered third reading of H577, a bill to authorize the state treasurer to join a multi‑state prescription discount card program commonly known as Array RX.
Member from Colchester explained that joining Array RX would allow any Vermont resident to receive a free discount card offering lower prices at the pharmacy counter, with savings cited as “up to 80% on generic drugs and up to 20% on brand‑name medications.” The bill authorizes the Treasurer to implement the program, establishes a special fund to support it, and includes a one‑time $50,000 appropriation to the Treasurer’s office in fiscal year 2027 to develop and implement the program.
Committee presenters said the program is self‑funded after start‑up by a small transaction fee charged at point of sale when the discount is used; the Ways and Means committee removed language that would have allowed the Treasurer to set ongoing fees and clarified that fee‑setting is a legislative responsibility.
Supporters pointed to endorsements from health and pharmacy groups, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Vermont, AARP, independent pharmacists, and others who provided testimony. The bill also requires annual reporting to the General Assembly beginning Jan. 2028, including participation and savings metrics.
The House amended the committee report and ordered the bill read a third time.
What’s next: H577 will return for third reading with committee amendments; the Treasurer’s office will be responsible for program setup and the $50,000 appropriation.
