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HF 590

A bill for an act relating to manufacturers and distributors of 340B drugs.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Brett Barker

Bill HF 590 ensures healthcare providers can access 340B drugs without interference from manufacturers or distributors, improving medication access for low-income patients.

Introduced, referred to Health and Human Services.
#distributors #insurance #manufacturing #prescriptiondrugs
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Bill Summary · HF 590

Summary of Bill HF 590

Bill Number: HF 590
Title: A bill for an act relating to manufacturers and distributors of 340B drugs
Status: Introduced, referred to Health and Human Services
Introduced Date: February 25, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject Areas: Distributors, Insurance, Manufacturing, Prescription Drugs

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of Bill HF 590 is to regulate the actions of manufacturers and distributors concerning the acquisition and distribution of 340B drugs. The bill aims to ensure that covered entities can access these drugs without undue interference from manufacturers or distributors, thereby supporting healthcare providers that serve low-income and uninsured patients.

Key Provisions

  1. Definitions:

    • 340B Drug: A covered outpatient drug purchased at a reduced price as per 42 U.S.C. §256b, specifically for use by covered entities.
    • Distributor: Any entity, excluding manufacturers, involved in the wholesale distribution of prescription drugs to retail community pharmacies. This includes repackers, jobbers, brokers, warehouses, and independent wholesale drug traders.
    • Manufacturer: Defined in accordance with section 1927(k)(5) of the federal Social Security Act.

  2. Prohibitions on Interference:

    • The bill explicitly prohibits manufacturers and distributors from denying, restricting, or interfering with the acquisition of 340B drugs by covered entities or the delivery of these drugs to contract pharmacies.
    • The only exception to this prohibition is if such actions are mandated by the United States Department of Health and Human Services.

Impact

  • Covered Entities: The bill is designed to protect healthcare providers that qualify as covered entities under the 340B program, ensuring they can obtain necessary medications without barriers.
  • Manufacturers and Distributors: The legislation imposes restrictions on how these entities can operate regarding the distribution of 340B drugs, potentially affecting their business practices and relationships with pharmacies.
  • Healthcare Access: By safeguarding the availability of 340B drugs, the bill aims to enhance access to affordable medications for vulnerable populations, thereby supporting public health initiatives.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was introduced on February 25, 2025, and has been referred to the Health and Human Services committee for further consideration. The timeline for subsequent actions or votes has not been specified.

This summary provides an overview of Bill HF 590, highlighting its intent, key provisions, and potential impacts on stakeholders in the healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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