Finally, pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) and drug pricing will continue to be areas of focus for state legislatures this year. These once again appear to be mostly pared down, piecemeal bills. However, state efforts will be buoyed by recent wins in the Supreme Court (Rutledge v. PCMA) and the 8th Circuit Court of Appeals (PCMA v. Wehbi) that expanded the ability of states to regulate PBMs. The ACR filed amicus briefs with the Alliance for Transparent and Affordable Prescriptions (ATAP) that supported state regulations in both cases. Only time will tell how these legal wins will change how state legislatures choose to regulate PBMs, but as states gain more legislative and regulatory tools, the ACR’s work with ATAP and other partners will be important to help shape and monitor emerging state legislation.
Making a Better 2022
This year, it is more important than ever for you to engage with your legislators at the state and federal levels. At a time when everyone thinks they are a medical expert, legislators need to hear from the people who actually are. You can use our Legislative Action Center to let your voice be heard on the issues that matter most to you and your patients. If we can be of any assistance, email us at [email protected] and the relevant advocacy team member will respond to your inquiry. We are happy to help you engage on any issue confronting your rheumatology practice or your patients. On behalf of the entire ACR advocacy team, we hope you have a healthy, happy and successful 2022.
Joseph Cantrell, JD, is the senior manager of state affairs for the ACR.
