WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

H 1157

An Act to ensure access to prescription medication and community pharmacies

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Carole Fiola and 1 co-sponsor

Massachusetts bill protecting prescription access and community pharmacy viability by limiting pharmacy benefit manager restrictions and insurance network constraints.

Accompanied a new draft, see H4493
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · H 1157

Legislative bill overview

H 1157 aims to protect consumer access to prescription medications and ensure the viability of independent community pharmacies in Massachusetts. The bill addresses concerns about pharmacy closures, medication access limitations, and practices by pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) and insurance companies that may restrict patients' choices or increase costs.

Why is this important

Community pharmacies serve critical roles in healthcare delivery, particularly in underserved areas where they may be the only accessible healthcare provider. Pharmacy closures and restricted access to preferred pharmacies can increase travel burdens for patients, delay medication access, and undermine medication adherence—especially for vulnerable populations including elderly and rural residents.

Potential points of contention

  • PBM regulatory scope: The bill likely regulates pharmacy benefit managers' reimbursement rates and formulary practices, which PBMs argue may increase costs or limit their operational flexibility
  • Insurance network restrictions: Provisions ensuring access to community pharmacies may conflict with insurers' cost-containment strategies through narrow networks and preferred pharmacy designations
  • Implementation costs: Requirements to maintain pharmacy networks or adjust reimbursement structures could increase administrative burden and costs for insurers and PBMs, potentially affecting premium rates

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

Sign in to ask a question.