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.
Arkansas
The Insurance Department (AID) issued Bulletin 2-2026 – Pharmacy Network Adequacy Reporting. Direct your questions to aid.pbmlicensing@arkansas.gov.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.
California
The Department of Health Care Services posted the following on the Medi-Cal Rx Web Portal. Please review numerous timely, important alerts listed below.
Also in California, the Board of Pharmacy posted its agenda for the March 18 full board meeting. Please note discussion and possible action related to remote processing of prescriptions, including review of comments received during the 45-day comment period.
Finally in California, the Board of Pharmacy published its News Roundup-March 2026 that includes the following:
- Upcoming Meetings
- Friendly Reminders
- Servicemembers Civil Relief Act
- Free Trainings Updated and Now Available
- Transition to Standard of Care
- Pharmacist-in-Charge
- Vaccines
- New Requirements for Nonresident Pharmacies
- California Medication Error Reporting (CAMER)
For more information, contact NACDS’ Sandra Guckian at 703-774-4801.
Colorado
SB032 is legislation supported by NACDS and our in-state pharmacy partners that strengthens access to pharmacy vaccine services and codifies Board of Pharmacy rules regarding pharmacists’ authority to prescribe and administer vaccines. The bill is currently pending in the House Chamber on Second Reading. It also provides liability protections for pharmacists and authorizes the Department of Public Health and Environment to consider vaccines adopted by the Board of Health through rulemaking, as well as recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) and other similar entities.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.
Illinois
The Illinois Retail Merchants Association (IRMA) has opened the online application for the its Pharmacy Assistance Program, which is supported by a grant from the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO). The program will provide direct financial assistance to qualifying pharmacies to help expand and sustain pharmacy services in communities across the state that need them most.
This initiative is designed to support pharmacies serving underserved and vulnerable areas, helping ensure that patients across the state continue to have access to essential medications and pharmacist-provided care.
Pharmacies interested in participating are encouraged to review the eligibility requirements and submit an application through the IRMA website.
Applications must be submitted no later than midnight on March 31, 2026.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Leigh Knotts at 803-243-7207.
Kansas
HB 2676, a bill expanding pharmacists' scope of practice that passed the House of Representatives last month, was heard by the Senate Public Health and Welfare Committee this week. The legislation permits pharmacists to initiate therapy—including medications and durable medical equipment—under specific circumstances. It also requires pharmacists who independently initiate therapy to maintain professional liability insurance.
Also in Kansas, SB 360, known as the Kansas Consumer Prescription Protection and Accountability Act and supported by NACDS and our in-state partners, was heard by the House Health and Human Services Committee this week. Last month, the Senate approved the bill by a vote of 32-8. The legislation clarifies auditing procedures, specifies reporting requirements and enhances enforcement authority by enabling both compliance and financial examinations.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.
Louisiana
The Legislature convened its regular session on March 9.
Also in Louisiana, the Department of Health (LDH) provided Informational Bulletin 26-3 regarding the UnitedHealthcare's participation in the Medicaid program that will end on March 31.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.
Michigan
The Final Rule for expanded pharmacists' immunization, testing and contraceptive prescribing authority has been approved and will become final when approved by the Secretary of State. In response, Medicaid published Provider Letter L 26-09 on February 12, 2026, that includes:
- Notice of Intent to Submit a State Plan Amendment and Alternative Benefit Plan State Plan Amendment to Clarify Pharmacist Services Authorization
- Policy promulgation to clarify pharmacist enrollment and coverage of expanded scope of practices services coverage.
For more detail, including a PowerPoint presentation, visit the Pharmacy Liaison Committee page.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Jill McCormack at 717-592-8977.
North Carolina
The Board of Pharmacy has published proposed administrative rules (Page 1351) in the North Carolina Register concerning Test and Treat of Influenza. A public hearing will be held on March 17 at 9:00 am at the Board of Pharmacy, 6015 Farrington Road, Suite 201, Chapel Hill, NC 27517.
Any person may object to the proposed rule changes by attending the public hearing on March 17 and/or by submitting a written objection by May 1 to Jay Campbell, Executive Director, North Carolina Board of Pharmacy, 6015 Farrington Road, Suite 201, Chapel Hill, NC 27517, fax (919) 246-1056 or e-mail ncboprulemaking@ncbop.org.
For reference, here is information concerning the agreed upon protocols (found here) and (here), that the Board of Pharmacy and Medical Board have agreed upon and which was used to implement Test and Treat of Influenza under a statewide standing order issued by the State Health Director on September 30, 2025.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Leigh Knotts at 803-243-7207.
Ohio
HB 229, legislation sponsored by Rep. Kellie Deeter (R), establishing PBM licensure and regulation, passed the Senate last week and is now back in the House for concurrence with Senate amendments. Meanwhile, HB 192, Rep. Tim Barhorst's (R) bill that mandates a cost-based pharmacy reimbursement floor, among other reforms, was heard in the House Insurance Committee on March 11.
Also in Ohio, the Board of Pharmacy posted March 2026 Rules and Resolutions that includes a resolution delaying enforcement of USP 797 and 795 to February 28, 2027.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Jill McCormack at 717-592-8977.
Oregon
The Prescription Drug Affordability Board (PDAB) posted its draft agenda and meeting materials for the March 18 meeting. Check the PDAB website for updates prior to the meeting. Register in advance.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Sandra Guckian at 703-774-4801.
Texas
NACDS, the Texas Federation of Drug Stores (TFDS) and the Texas Pharmacy Association (TPA) met with Stephanie Muth, Executive Commissioner of the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC), and her leadership team. Muth previously served as Medicaid Director during her more than 15-year tenure at HHSC, as well as holding roles as deputy executive commissioner and chief of staff before departing the agency in 2020. Bringing all Texas pharmacy groups together for this meeting was important to demonstrate unity on key priorities: no below-cost reimbursement; PBM reforms to eliminate waste, fraud and abuse; and the recognition of pharmacies as healthcare providers for Rural Health Transformation projects.
Also in Texas, the Health and Human Services Commissions (HHSC) Vendor Drug Program (VDP) revised Pharmacy Provider Procedure Manual that includes information about Medicaid benefits, policies and procedures for outpatient pharmacy claims and rebates was released.
Also in Texas, HHSC announced that in accordance with the requirements of HB229, ImmTrac2 forms have been updated.
Also in Texas, HHSC has transitioned to a new web-based software application, State of Texas Electronic Provider System (STEPS), to collect information from providers for Medicaid and non-Medicaid cost reports, Supplemental and Directed Payment Program (DPP) enrollments and legislatively directed reports.
Finally in Texas, HHSC's Executive Council will meet on March 19 at 10:00 am. Members of the public are welcome to view the meeting by webcast and click on the Winters Live tab or you may attend in-person at the John H. Winters Building, Public Hearing Room 125, First Floor, 701 West 51st Street, Austin, Texas 78751. Information to watch the meeting virtually or to attend the meeting in-person is also located on the agenda.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.
Virginia
The Commonwealth is poised to strengthen PBM regulation in the commercial market with the passage of SB 669, which has been sent to Gov. Abigail Spanberger (D) for approval. The bill mandates pass-through pricing for PBMs, requires insurers to offer at least one prescription plan with a fee-only compensation structure if requested, bans retroactive payment cuts and protects pharmacies from PBM retaliation for filing complaints. Additionally, the Administration intends to move forward with the process to implement a Single PBM model in Medicaid Managed Care, supported by the inclusion of startup funding for the RFP process in the current budget proposal, which is still being negotiated.
Also in Virginia, the Board of Pharmacy posted the March 17 agenda packet. Please note that it includes the 2025 Pharmacist and Pharmacy Technician Workforce Survey Report(s).
For more information, contact NACDS’ Jill McCormack at 717-592-8977.
Washington
SSB 5934, the standard of care bill that could expand pharmacists’ practice authority by allowing them to independently prescribe and diagnose within their scope of practice based on education and experience, passed the Senate but died in the House Health Care and Wellness Committee.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.
Wyoming
The Department of Health (WDH) officials stated concerned about the ongoing, active spread of pertussis (whooping cough) across the state. Kaylyn Friesen, vaccine-preventable disease epidemiologist with WDH, said there have been 26 confirmed pertussis cases in the state so far this year.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Sandra Guckian at 703-774-4801.
California
The Department of Health Care Services posted the following on the Medi-Cal Rx Web Portal:
For more information, contact NACDS’ Sandra Guckian at 703-774-4801.
Colorado
The House Health and Human Services Committee held a hearing this week on SB 26-032, legislation that passed the Senate earlier this month. The bill strengthens access to pharmacy vaccine services and codifies Board of Pharmacy rules regarding pharmacists’ authority to prescribe and administer vaccines. NACDS submitted a statement supporting the bill.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.
Illinois
Effective December 31, 2025, generic Novolog (insulin aspart) and generic Tresiba (insulin degludec) vials and pens were discontinued by the manufacturer. In response, the Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) has moved the brand name Humalog (insulin lispro) products to preferred status and will continue to maintain the generic insulin lispro and brand name Lantus (insulin glargine) products as preferred on the Preferred Drug List (PDL).
To ensure that interruption in treatment is avoided, pharmacies are encouraged to contact the patient's doctor to request a change to a preferred rapid acting insulin agent. Pharmacies may continue to dispense generic insulin until stock is exhausted.
Also in Illinois, effective April 15, Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) will once again designate Contour Plus Blue blood glucose meters and test strips as preferred agents on the Preferred Drug List (PDL). In the Provider Notice issued 10/24/2025, prior authorization was temporarily removed for the non-preferred brands, OneTouch, Accu-Chek and FreeStyle blood glucose meters and blood glucose test strips due to shortages of Contour Plus Blue products. Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) has been in communication with Ascensia Diabetes Care, the manufacturer of Contour Plus Blue products, which has confirmed that the out-of-stock issues experienced last year have been rectified.
If Illinois Medicaid customers received OneTouch, Accu-Chek or FreeStyle blood glucose meters and blood glucose strips since October 24, 2025, a new prescription is required to change over to the Contour Plus Blue products. Prior authorization is necessary for OneTouch, Accu-Chek or FreeStyle products.
This change will apply to Fee-For-Service (FFS) and Managed Care Organizations (MCOs).
Questions regarding this notice may be directed to the Bureau of Professional and Ancillary Services at 877-782-5565 or the applicable MCO.
Also in Illinois, the Illinois Retail Merchants Association (IRMA) announced the availability of an online application for the Pharmacy Assistance Program. Supported by a grant from the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, IRMA will provide direct payments to qualifying pharmacies in the state to increase the availability of pharmacy services in the state's underserved communities. Details about the application and qualifications can be found by clicking the button below. Pharmacies are encouraged to apply soon as the application period closes at midnight on March 31. For questions regarding the program or the application, please email info@irma.org.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Leigh Knotts at 803-243-7207.
Kansas
The Senate approved, by a vote of 32-8, legislation that NACDS supports that would regulate PBMs. SB 360, the Kansas Consumer Prescription Protection and Accountability Act, defines auditing procedures, outlines reporting requirements and enhances enforcement authority by allowing for compliance and financial examinations. The bill was sent to the House for further consideration.
Also in Kansas, the House of Representatives approved by a vote of 95-27, HB 2676, legislation expanding the scope of practice for pharmacists. The bill allows for the initiation of therapy, including medication and durable medical equipment, under certain circumstances and requires pharmacists who independently initiate therapy to maintain professional liability insurance. The bill has been referred to the Senate for further consideration.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.
Nevada
The Board of Pharmacy posted the agenda for a two-day meeting in Las Vegas on March 4 and 5.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.
New York
The State Department of Health’s NYRx Education & Outreach (E&O) team held a webinar on February 25 focusing on different areas of the Medicaid Pharmacy Program. The customized webinar was directed toward pharmacies, pharmacists and pharmacy staff who care for the state’s Medicaid members and covered several topics, including pharmacy enrollment, coordination of benefits and billing guidance. The session was held as part of a series, which will extend through March, occurring Wednesdays, from 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm ET. Registration is required to join. To register, select a date and click the link to register.
For more information, please contact NACDS’ Mike Sargent at 207-272-6435.
Ohio
Gainwell Technologies, the Medicaid Single PBM (SPBM), announced effective April 1 brand Suboxone will transition to non-preferred status and will require Prior Authorization (PA). Generic buprenorphine/naloxone will remain Preferred (No PA Required). The announcement further encouraged pharmacies to ensure they have advance supplies of the preferred product to manage this utilization shift without patient interruption.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Jill McCormack at 717-592-8977.
Oregon
The Board of Pharmacy adopted the following Temporary Rule and Protocols:
February 25, 2026, Temporary Rule Noticed
- Div 115 – Services: Prescribing – Pursuant to Protocol *Effective 2/25/2026
Email all rulemaking related inquiries to pharmacy.rulemaking@bop.oregon.gov.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Sandra Guckian at 703-774-4801.
Texas
The primary election is on March 3.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.
Virginia
HB 830, legislation requiring commercial PBMs to utilize pass through pricing models and offer at least one plan that restricts PBM revenue to a set fee, was amended and passed the House unanimously. The bill also limits PBMs' ability to charge fees and retroactively reduce pharmacy reimbursement. It is now in the Senate Commerce and Labor Committee and we expect that it will eventually reach Gov. Abigail Spanberger's (D) desk.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Jill McCormack at 717-592-8977.