Bill
S 3485
Overview: S 3485, "Relates to prescription drug formulary coverage for interchangeable biologics and biosimilars", was printed as S 3485A on January 27, 2025.Purpose and Intent: Th
Overview: S 3485, "Relates to prescription drug formulary coverage for interchangeable biologics and biosimilars", was printed as S 3485A on January 27, 2025.
Purpose and Intent: The bill aims to increase patient access to more affordable prescription drug options by requiring health insurance plans to provide coverage for interchangeable biologics and biosimilars on the same terms as their reference biological products.
Key Provisions:
- Mandates that health plans include interchangeable biologics and biosimilars on their prescription drug formularies
- Prohibits plans from placing more restrictive utilization management requirements on interchangeable biologics and biosimilars
- Requires plans to charge the same or lower cost-sharing amounts for interchangeable biologics and biosimilars as their reference products
Affected Parties and Impacts: The bill would benefit patients by expanding their access to lower-cost prescription drug alternatives. Health plans would need to adjust their formularies and cost-sharing structures, which could lead to reduced prescription drug spending. Pharmaceutical manufacturers of interchangeable biologics and biosimilars would also see increased market opportunities.
Procedural and Timeline Considerations: The bill has been printed as S 3485A and must now proceed through the full legislative process in the Senate. If enacted, the new coverage requirements for interchangeable biologics and biosimilars would take effect 6 months after becoming law.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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