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HCR 120

INSURANCE: Creates the PACE Task Force to prioritize access, care, and education on GLP-1 medications

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Rodney Lyons

Examines how GLP-1 medications affect access, pricing, and insurance costs in Louisiana, and provides policy recommendations through a formal Task Force.

Taken by the Clerk of the House and presented to the Secretary of State in accordance with the Rules of the House.
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Bill Summary · HCR 120

Summary of Bill: HCR 120 (Louisiana, 2026)

Purpose and Intent

  • Establishes the PACE Task Force to prioritize access, care, and education on GLP-1 medications.
  • The Task Force will study the clinical history, accessibility, and the impact of GLP-1 medications on insurance costs for both insured individuals and insurers in Louisiana.
  • The Task Force is required to report its written findings to the Legislature by February 12, 2027.

Key Provisions and Changes

  • What is a GLP-1 medication? The resolution references glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, which began as diabetes treatments in 2005 and have evolved into chronic weight-management options, with substantial price and access implications.
  • Scope of study for the Task Force:
    • History and development of GLP-1 drugs.
    • Accessibility for Louisiana residents, including Medicaid and private insurance implications.
    • Effects on insurance costs for both insured individuals and insurers in the state.
    • Policy considerations to propose legislative recommendations.
  • Topics the Task Force should consider (non-exhaustive list):
    1. Pricing differences for diabetes vs. weight-loss indications.
    2. Whether GLP-1 coverage attracts higher-risk enrollees.
    3. Impact of strict prior authorization policies on insurer costs.
    4. Employer practices that may limit GLP-1 coverage to control premiums.
    5. Access for lower-income or uninsured populations.
    6. Reasons enrollees may discontinue GLP-1 therapy after short periods.
    7. Actuarial projections of net savings over 2, 5, and 10 years.
    8. Cost-effectiveness of different GLP-1 medication forms (injectables vs. oral).
  • Composition of the Task Force:
    • Commissioner of Insurance or designee.
    • CEO of the Louisiana Association of Health Plans or designee.
    • Secretary of the Louisiana Department of Health or designee.
    • Chair of the Louisiana Board of Pharmacy or designee.
    • One endocrinology/obesity specialist provided from a list of nominees (appointed by the House Speaker) from specified medical facilities.
  • Staffing and operation:
    • Task Force staffed by the Louisiana Department of Insurance.
    • Designating authorities must submit designee names by August 1, 2026.
    • First meeting by September 1, 2026.
    • Members serve without compensation, but may receive per diem or expense reimbursement as allowed by their organizations.
  • Reporting and termination:
    • Written report due to House and Senate insurance committees by February 12, 2027.
    • Written recommendations also submitted to the David R. Poynter Legislative Library as required by law.
    • Task Force terminates upon completion of its business or by February 12, 2027, whichever comes first.

Who/What Is Affected

  • State agencies: Louisiana Department of Insurance, Louisiana Department of Health, Louisiana Board of Pharmacy.
  • Insurers and healthcare plans operating in Louisiana (public and private).
  • Medicaid program in Louisiana (as GLP-1 coverage and cost dynamics are central to the discussion).
  • Louisiana residents insured under state and private plans, particularly those affected by GLP-1 pricing and coverage decisions.
  • Medical professionals specializing in endocrinology/obesity may be involved via the appointed expert representative.

Timelines and Procedural Details

  • August 1, 2026: Designating authorities must submit designee names.
  • September 1, 2026: Task Force must convene its first meeting.
  • February 12, 2027: Final written report due to legislative committees and library.
  • The Task Force will terminate after completing its work or by February 12, 2027, whichever occurs first.
  • Members serve without compensation, with potential per diem/expense reimbursement as allowed.

Potential Impact

  • Aims to produce data-driven recommendations on GLP-1 pricing, coverage, and utilization management.
  • Could influence future state policy on how GLP-1 medications are covered by Medicaid and private plans, potentially addressing access disparities and long-term cost concerns.
  • Provides a structured, formal process to evaluate actuarial savings and cost-effectiveness of GLP-1 medications in Louisiana.

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

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