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Bill

SJR 45

Pharmacy benefits manager; directing LSA director to retain national consultant to study and report on effects of pharmacy benefits manager practices in the State of Alabama

2025 Regular Session

Alabama directs study of pharmacy benefits manager practices' effects on drug costs and patient access to determine if regulation is needed.

Enacted
#insurance
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Bill Summary · SJR 45

Legislative bill overview

SJR 45 directs Alabama's Legislative Services Agency (LSA) director to hire a national consultant to conduct a comprehensive study on how pharmacy benefits managers (PBMs) operate and affect the state. The study will examine PBMs' practices, their impact on drug costs, pharmacy access, and patients, with findings reported back to the legislature.

Why is this important

Pharmacy benefits managers are intermediaries between insurance companies, pharmacies, and patients that significantly influence prescription drug pricing and availability. Alabama lawmakers are seeking independent expert analysis to understand whether PBM practices harm consumers or the state's healthcare system, which could inform future regulatory decisions.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and scope ambiguity: The bill doesn't specify the consultant's budget, timeline, or detailed study parameters, leaving uncertainty about thoroughness and completion date
  • PBM industry resistance: National PBM companies may view this as a precursor to restrictive legislation and could lobby against unfavorable findings or recommendations
  • Limited enforcement mechanism: The bill only requires a study and report; it contains no automatic trigger for legislative action even if problems are identified, potentially limiting real-world impact

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

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