Alabama
The Department of Insurance (DOI) PBM Compliance Division has taken its first action against non-compliant PBMs. Actions have been filed against two entities: one taken in October against Drexi, Inc. for operating without a PBM license in the state, and one taken against Express Scripts, Inc. (ESI) this week for several violations, including charging of illegal fees; under payment of reimbursements; and failure and refusal to provide accounts, documents, records, files, information and matters relevant to the substance of complaints. The Department is enforcing Act 2025-36, also known as the Community Pharmacy Relief Act. Stay informed by visiting the DOI PBM Compliance Division page and the PBM Actions page.
Also in Alabama, the Board of Pharmacy proposed these rules for adoption. The required public comment period is now open, and we encourage all members to review them.
File written comments directly with the Board of Pharmacy as directed in the cover sheet for the rule. Deadlines for comments are provided on the rule filings. All written comments should be sent to Wpassmore@albop.com by the deadlines noted.
Finally in Alabama, the Board of Pharmacy scheduled several upcoming meetings for 2026, including April 15, May 20, June 17, July 15, August 19, September 16, October 14, November 18 and December 16. All meetings begin at 9:00 am CST/CDT unless otherwise noted.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Leigh Knotts at 803-243-7207.
California
Due to an overwhelming response, the Board of Pharmacy is opening more spots for those interested in attending a listening session on pharmacists provided consultation. Seeking to minimize barriers that exist for pharmacists providing consultation to patients, the Board is interested in hearing from licensed California pharmacists to gather information to assist in evaluating the Board's current consultation requirements. In addition, separate listening sessions will be scheduled so the Board can obtain input from patients and public participants.
Sessions will be conducted over WebEx. Please see the schedule of dates and times below. The Board respectfully requests individuals to register for ONLY ONE session to ensure other pharmacists have the same opportunity. If you previously registered for a session, please do not register for an additional session date.
We have increased the meeting capacity; however, space is still limited, and registration is required. To register, click on the link below for your preferred session:
Questions to be discussed during the listening session include:
- Do you believe patient consultation is needed for all prescriptions?
- How and where does the pharmacist provide patient consultation?
- Does the patient receive the medication prior to consultation?
- Should the pharmacy be required to document the consultation?
- Can technology assist in identifying, documenting, and providing patient consultation?
- What challenges or barriers exist making it difficult for the pharmacist to provide consultation?
- What is your vision of best practice for patient consultation?
- Are there opportunities for compensation for medication reviews and patient counseling?
- If you mail or deliver prescriptions to patients, how do you provide consultation?Do you believe the requirements should be different than face-to-face consultation?
The information provided will be considered during an upcoming Enforcement and Compounding Committee meeting.
Also in California, the Board of Pharmacy published its 2026 Lawbook.
Finally in California, NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Board of Pharmacy (Board) has proposed modifications to the proposed regulatory text in section 1717.11 of article 2, division 17, title 16 of the California Code of Regulations, related to REMOTE PROCESSING. These regulations were originally noticed on January 9 and approved as modified by the Board at its March 18 meeting. Materials regarding this proposal can be found online or by requesting them from the contact person identified below.
Any person who wishes to comment on the proposed modifications may do so by submitting written comments between March 19 and April 3 to the following:
Contact Name: Debbie Damoth
Address: 2720 Gateway Oaks Drive, Suite 100 Sacramento, CA 95833
Fax number: (916) 574-8618
Email Address: PharmacyRulemaking@dca.ca.gov
Please note comments should be restricted to the most recent modifications made to the proposed regulations. The Board is not required to respond to comments on other aspects of the proposed regulations received in response to this notice.
Any comments previously submitted remain in the rulemaking file and will be responded to by the Board's staff as part of the Final Statement of Reasons. All written comments received by April 3 that pertain to these modifications, will be reviewed and responded to by the Board's staff as part of the compilation of the rulemaking file.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Sandra Guckian at 703-774-4801.
Colorado
SB26-032, a bill designed to expand access to pharmacy vaccine services by increasing pharmacists' authority to prescribe and administer vaccines and by providing liability protections for pharmacists, passed both legislative chambers and was sent to Gov. Jared Polis (D) to sign into law.
Also in Colorado, after months of stakeholder negotiations, HB 26-1336, the Increase Access to Pharmacy Services bill that NACDS supports, was filed last week. The bill would strengthen coverage requirements for the clinical services pharmacists provide within their scope of practice and expand pharmacy technicians' technical and nondiscretionary tasks that do not require a pharmacist's expertise and professional judgement. The bill also includes provisions that expand pharmacists' scope of practice to provide test & treat services for families with children 12 years of age and younger. A hearing is scheduled in the House Health Care and Health Insurance Committee on March 31.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.
Georgia
The Board of Pharmacy published a Notice of Intent to Adopt, Amend, or Repeal Rule 480-10A-.08 Notification to Patients, and Notice of Public Hearing on March 3. The Board also issued a Notice to Treatment Providers regarding Board Policy #9 on February 26.
Additionally, the Board posted a consumer alert about reports of scammers impersonating Board and Georgia Drugs and Narcotics Agency (GDNA) staff on March 4.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Leigh Knotts at 803-243-7207.
Illinois
The Department of Financial and Professional Regulation released the Compliance Capsule Spring 2026 newsletter, providing regulatory updates and compliance information for licensed professionals, including pharmacists.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Leigh Knotts at 803-243-7207.
Kansas
The Consumer Prescription Protection and Accountability Act, supported by NACDS and the Kansas Pharmacy Association, has been approved by both legislative chambers and was sent to Gov. Laura Kelly (D) for signature. SB 360 is a comprehensive PBM reform bill that clarifies auditing procedures, specifies reporting requirements and strengthens enforcement authority by enabling both compliance and financial examinations.
Also in Kansas, the Board of Pharmacy issued the March 2026 newsletter.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.
Kentucky
NACDS members are invited to participate in the University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy's Standard of Care Summit on May 16.
Also in Kentucky, the Board of Pharmacy released its March 2026 newsletter, providing regulatory updates and guidance for pharmacy professionals.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Jill McCormack at 717-592-8977.
Maryland
The Prescription Drug Affordability Board (PDAB) invites you to attend the April Board Meeting scheduled for April 13 at 9:00 am. Part of the meeting may be conducted in closed session. This meeting will be held remotely, please register online. Information about providing public comments can be found at the Board Meetings page as well as more information about the upcoming and previous board meetings, presentation materials and the PDAB's work.
Also in Maryland, the Board of Pharmacy scheduled regular meetings throughout 2026, with sessions planned for April 15, May 20, June 17, July 15, August 19, September 16, October 21, November 18 and December 16. All meetings are scheduled for 9:30 am in Room 109/110 at 4201 Patterson Avenue in Baltimore.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Jill McCormack at 717-592-8977.
Massachusetts
The Division of Insurance published final regulations related to the Licensing and Regulation of Pharmacy Benefit Managers – 211 CMR 157. The Division accepted the NACDS and Massachusetts Chain Pharmacy Council’s proposed amendment to require PBMs to disclose any common ownership interest with an insurance carrier. The release of the final regulation, which is effective March 13, aligns with ongoing work in the Massachusetts Legislature to consider additional PBM reform initiatives.
For more information, please contact NACDS’ Mike Sargent at 207-272-6435.
Minnesota
The Department of Human Services informed NACDS that implementation of the Medicaid Managed Care Single PBM will be delayed a year to January 1, 2028. They stated that the decision stems from recent discussions during the final stages of the RFP process, where it became clear that more time was needed to complete necessary processes and seek federal approvals.
Also in Minnesota, the Department of Human Services (DHS) asked NACDS to urge any pharmacy that has not yet responded to the Cost of Dispensing Survey to please do so ASAP. The survey is mandatory, and the overall response rate is currently lower than usual. The survey and related documents can be found on DHS' Cost of Dispensing webpage. Please note that the survey will help determine the Professional Dispensing Fee under both the Single PBM and the Medicaid fee-for-service programs.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Jill McCormack at 717-592-8977.
Missouri
SB 878 was amended and passed the Senate on March 23. The bill expands pharmacist scope authority for CLIA-waived tests and allows prescribing of certain types of medical equipment. It also enhances the Board of Pharmacy’s authority to allow pharmacies to dispense medications during a declared emergency. In addition, it would allow the over-the-counter sale of ivermectin and hydroxychloroquine, with a warning label, once the FDA authorizes them for over-the-counter dispensing. The bill was sent the House of Representatives for further action.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.
North Dakota
REMINDER: Cost of Dispensing surveys are due on March 31. Please visit the website to find the electronic version of the survey, instructional letter and other important documents. For assistance, please contact the Myers & Stauffer help desk via email at disp_survey@mslc.com or by phone at 1-800-591-1183.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Sandra Guckian at 703-774-4801.
Ohio
Gainwell Technologies, the Single PBM for Medicaid, announced that effective April 1, per Ohio Administrative Code Rule 5160-1-01, products will only be covered if they are determined to be medically necessary. Concurrent pharmacy claims for Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Agonists (GLP-1s) and Dipeptidyl Peptidase-4 Inhibitors (DPP-4s) will deny at point-of-sale. Affected members and prescribers have been notified of the change.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Jill McCormack at 717-592-8977.
Oregon
The Board of Pharmacy posted the April 8-10, 2026 Board Meeting Agenda and meeting materials. On page 4 of the agenda, please note the Rulemaking Policy Discussion Items scheduled on April 9. Additional meeting materials may be added to the agenda prior to the board meeting. Visit the board website for current meeting materials.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Sandra Guckian at 703-774-4801.
Pennsylvania
SB 1186 and HB 2270, companion bills that would reform the Medicaid Managed Care pharmacy benefit under a Single PBM model, have been introduced by Senators Lisa Boscola (D) and Judy Ward (R) and Representatives Rob Matzie (D) and Katie Klunk (R), respectively. NACDS assisted in drafting the bills and is working jointly with the PA Pharmacy Coalition to advance them.
Also in Pennsylvania, the pharmacy technician registration deadline is approaching. To continue practicing, all pharmacy technicians must complete their registrations with Board of Pharmacy through the Pennsylvania Licensing System (PALS) by June 28.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Jill McCormack at 717-592-8977.
South Carolina
The Department of Health and Human Services (SCDHHS) is reminding providers about the April 1 effective date for the change to the agency’s 340B drug program billing polices previously announced in bulletin MB #26-004. As a reminder, this change applies to providers who purchase physician-administered drugs through the Health Resources and Services Administration’s 340B drug pricing program. This policy change only applies to services rendered on or after April 1 to Healthy Connections Medicaid members in an outpatient setting who are enrolled in the Medicaid fee-for-service program.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Leigh Knotts at 803-243-7207.
South Dakota
Gov. Larry Rhoden (R) signed SB 14, legislation adding a new section to the pharmacy practice act permitting a licensed pharmacy to utilize a remote drop site to deliver prescription drugs to patients under specified conditions. There are additional provisions in the bill related to the pharmacist-in-charge and pharmacy licensure.
Also in South Dakota, Gov. Larry Rhoden (R) signed HB 1044, legislation appropriating funds to implement the Rural Health Transformation Program.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Sandra Guckian at 703-774-4801.
Tennessee
Tennessee Pharmacy Association's advocacy team has developed a comprehensive, user-friendly set of responses addressing the most common misinformation surrounding SB 2040 (Harshbarger) and HB 1959 (Scarbrough). This resource is intended to equip members with clear, accurate messaging to confidently respond to misleading claims, particularly those circulating on social media about the bills' intent and impact. Members are encouraged to use these prepared responses when engaging in online discussions or conversations where misinformation appears, helping ensure consistent, fact-based communication.
Also, Tennessee patients and pharmacists who have received unwanted texts, calls or app restrictions related to lobbying efforts can report these concerns to the Tennessee Attorney General. Using pharmacy communication channels for political advocacy may violate consumer protection laws and health privacy laws, and filing a complaint helps ensure these practices can be investigated and addressed. To submit a report, use the official Attorney General complaint form.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Leigh Knotts at 803-243-7207.
Texas
The Texas Pharmaceutical Initiatives (TPI) Board met on March 18 to review the Interagency Cooperation Contracts with the Texas A&M University System College of Pharmacy. TPI staff provided updates on the revised business plan due on June 1. The Board was also briefed on the input received by TPI staff from external stakeholders, including NACDS, regarding the implementation of the TPI Business Plan.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.
Utah
Gov. Spencer Cox (R) signed HB 356, legislation imposing restrictions and prohibitions on manufacturers related to 340B covered entities and contract pharmacies.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Sandra Guckian at 703-774-4801.
Vermont
Gov. Phil Scott (R) signed H.545 on March 24, effectively delinking vaccine administration authority and coverage of vaccines from ACIP. The new law requires plans to cover vaccines that are recommended by the Commissioner of Health, who shall consider vaccine recommendations from the American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists (ACOG), the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), the American College of Physicians (ACP), ACIP and other organizations the Commissioner may deem necessary. During the bill singing, Governor Scott stated, “We’ve seen the value in using science and data when making decisions about the health of Vermonters. H.545 establishes a process that allows us to continue this practice, by enabling the Vermont Department of Health to make vaccine and immunization recommendations based on available science and data. Getting vaccinated is the best way for us to protect ourselves and others, and this bill helps make sure vaccines remain accessible and affordable in Vermont.”
For more information, please contact NACDS’ Mike Sargent at 207-272-6435.
Washington
The legislature adjourned on March 13. Unfortunately, our priority bill, SSB 5924, legislation that would have removed administrative barriers to pharmacist-provided care by allowing independent prescribing and diagnosis within a pharmacist's scope of practice, did not advance. It was based on the Department of Health Sunrise Review recommendations.
Also in Washington, effective April 1, the Health Care Authority (HCA) is publishing quarterly updates to many of the Apple Health Billing Guides.
Also in Washington, effective April 1, all pharmacy providers who prescribe must be enrolled with ProviderOne as Apple Health providers. This requirement applies to pharmacists who administer vaccines or prescribe products within their scope of practice. While this has been required for the Medicaid fee-for-service program since 2014, it will now also apply to Medicaid managed care organizations (MCOs).
Also in Washington, the Department of Health Pharmacy Commission review of pharmacies submitting data to the Prescription Monitoring Program (PMP) Clearinghouse revealed that about 25% are not reporting the date a prescription is sold (dispensed). Pharmacies dispensing controlled substances must report three specific and distinct dates to the PMP: (1) Date of dispensing (sold date); (2) Prescription issue date (written date); and (3) Prescription number and fill date (fill date). Pharmacies may need to contact their software vendors to ensure their systems' date fields are updated to enable accurate reporting to the PMP.
Finally, in Washington, the state Health Care Authority's (HCA) Health Care Cost Transparency Board's next meeting is on March 25.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.
West Virginia
The General Assembly's 2026 legislative session has adjourned. Two bills of particular interest to pharmacy have completed the legislative process:
- HB 5430 – PBM (Commercial and Public Employees Insurance Agency (PEIA) updates) is on its way to Gov. Patrick Morrisey (R) for signature. The bill eliminates spread pricing, prohibits PBMs from using offshore group purchasing organizations (GPOs) to divert drug rebates, requires a pharmacy cost of dispensing study to be completed in 2026 and allows the Offices of the Insurance Commissioner to regulate and oversee PEIA's PBM.
- HB 4982 – Make West Virginia Healthy Act of 2026 – Establishes a Food Is Medicine program under Medicaid, has been signed into law.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Jill McCormack at 717-592-8977.
Wisconsin
The Board of Pharmacy has scheduled several meetings for 2026, including April 16 (hybrid format), June 18 (virtual), August 20 (virtual), October 15 (hybrid) and December 17 (virtual at both 9:00 am and 11:00 am).
For more information, contact NACDS’ Jermaine Smith at 703–837–4388.
Arizona
This week, HB 2444, test and treat legislation, passed out of the House of Representatives, passing 33–22, with 4 not voting and 1 vacant seat. This bill would permit pharmacists, pursuant to a statewide written protocol, to independently order, perform and interpret CLIA-waived tests and initiate treatment to individuals 12 years of age or the age authorized by the treatment, whichever is older, including influenza, group A streptococcus pharyngitis, COVID, or a condition related to an emerging or existing public health threat. PEP and PrEP remained in the bill, with certain additional requirements.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Sandra Guckian at 703-774-4801.