Gov. Greg Abbott (R) called lawmakers back to Austin this week for a third 30-day special session to advance border security measures, address school choice/vouchers and education savings accounts and tackle private employer COVID vaccine mandates.
Also in Texas, prior to the third special session, State Comptroller of Public Accounts Glenn Hegar (R) announced a certification revenue estimate (CRE) for the Fiscal Year 2024-25 biennium projecting a Rainy-Day Fund balance of $23.77 billion.
Also in Texas, the Health, and Human Services Commission (HHSC) Medicaid posted the September 2023 End of Continuous Medicaid Coverage Dashboard.
Also in Texas, the next quarterly meeting of the Board of Pharmacy (TSBP) is on November 7 in Austin. This will be the first meeting with the new Executive Director/Secretary Danny Carroll, PharmD.
Also in Texas, NACDS submitted comments to the State Board of Pharmacy (TSBP) on its strategic plan for fiscal years 2025-29, recommending statutory and regulatory changes to expand upon the temporary flexibilities under the federal PREP Act related to vaccinations and Test & Treat services. NACDS also urged TSBP to eliminate the ratio at a central fill Class A pharmacy and expand telepharmacy services beyond FQHCs (Federally Qualified Health Centers).
Finally in Texas, the Health, and Humans Services Commission (HHSC) Vendor Drug Program (VDP) Medicaid announced several changes in Preferred Drug list status effective on October 16, 2023, needed because of the shortage of several preferred brand name medications.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.