Arkansas Bans PBMs From Owning Pharmacies
In a groundbreaking move, Arkansas passed House Bill 1150 in April 2025, becoming the first state in the US to ban pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) from owning or operating pharmacies. The law is designed to address concerns about vertical integration in the pharmacy industry, where PBMs—companies that manage prescription drug benefits on behalf of insurers—also often own the pharmacies that fill those prescriptions.1
Supporters argue the law will help level the playing field for independent pharmacies and prevent self-dealing practices that harm competition and patient access. However, the law is already facing legal opposition.
On June 9, the Pharmaceutical Care Management Association filed a lawsuit against the state, claiming the law is unconstitutional and interferes with interstate commerce.2 The case could have national implications as many states watch closely to see whether Arkansas can successfully implement this type of reform. For now, pharmacists in the state—particularly those in independent or rural settings—are hopeful the law will protect their businesses and improve patient care options.
REFERENCES
To Prohibit a Pharmacy Benefits Manager From Obtaining Certain Pharmacy Permits, HR1150, 95th General Assembly (Ark 2025). Accessed June 24, 2025. https://arkleg.state.ar.us/Bills/Detail?id=hb1150&ddBienniumSession=2025%2F2025R
PCMA files lawsuit to stop dangerous Arkansas pharmacy closure law. News release. Pharmaceutical Care Management Association. June 9, 2025. Accessed June 24, 2025. https://www.pcmanet.org/press-releases/pcma-files-lawsuit-to-stop-dangerous-arkansas-pharmacy-closure-law/06/09/2025/
Alabama Requires PBMs to Pay Pharmacies Medicaid Rates
Alabama lawmakers have passed a new law that requires PBMs to reimburse independent pharmacies at rates equal to or above those paid by Medicaid. The bipartisan effort comes amid growing frustration among pharmacists who say they’re being driven out of business by reimbursement rates that don’t cover the cost of dispensing medications. With many rural areas at risk of becoming pharmacy deserts, the legislation aims to protect local access to pharmacy services.1
The law mirrors similar moves in states like Arkansas and reflects a broader legislative push to rein in PBMs. By tying reimbursements to Medicaid benchmarks, Alabama legislators hope to bring greater transparency and fairness to the pricing model. Independent pharmacists are applauding the move, saying it could mean the difference between staying open or shutting down, particularly in underserved regions where pharmacy closures have significant public health consequences.1
REFERENCE
Comeback state of the year: Alabama governor signs PBM reform bill into law. News release. National Community Pharmacists Association. April 29, 2025. Accessed June 30, 2025. https:// ncpa.org/newsroom/qam/2025/04/29/comeback-state-year-alabama-governor-signs-pbm-reformbill-law
New York Considers Allowing Pharmacy Technicians to Administer Vaccines
New York lawmakers are considering bills that would permanently authorize certified pharmacy technicians to administer vaccines—a practice temporarily allowed under the federal Public Readiness and Emergency Preparedness Act during the COVID-19 pandemic. Unlike most other states, New York has yet to codify this expanded role into state law, which pharmacy advocates say puts the state behind in vaccine access and efficient pharmacy operations.1
The legislation would allow trained pharmacy technicians to give vaccinations, potentially easing the workload on pharmacists and improving access, especially in communities with high patient volumes or limited health care resources. It would also help sustain momentum from the pandemic era, when pharmacies played a crucial role in mass immunization efforts. Pharmacists, in turn, could focus more on clinical responsibilities such as chronic disease management and medication therapy, making better use of the entire pharmacy team.2
REFERENCES
Assembly Bill A5152A (2025). Accessed June 24, 2025. https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A5152/amendment/A
Adams AJ, Bright D, Adams J. Pharmacy technician-administered immunizations: a five-year review. J Am Pharm Assoc (2003). 2021;62(2):419-423. doi:10.1016/j.japh.2021.11.011
