Although Gov. John Bel Edwards extended the statewide stay at home order to April 30, 2020 on March 31st, the legislature reconvened their legislative session for about an hour before adjourning again because of coronavirus concerns. They did not set a return date. As you recall, the regular session opened March 9th was suspended March 16th. Session will end June 1, 2020 although a special session could be held immediately afterward. All spending bills must be approved before the fiscal year begins July 1, 2020.
Also in Louisiana... The last day for filing bills was also Tuesday, and there were two dozen bills filed mentioning coronavirus. NACDS continues to stay in close contact with our pharmacy champions that have filed our payment parity and immunization bills, and is working with the Louisiana Independent Pharmacy Association on both filing a bill and seeking a statewide protocol for pharmacists to test and dispense antiviral medications. Over the past week, we initiated two meetings with Medicaid to promote our model language for access to essential medications.
Also in Louisiana... The Board of Pharmacy convened a special Board meeting via conference call on April 2nd to discuss guidelines related to COVID19. Link to agenda – http://www.pharmacy.la.gov/assets/docs/Board/2020-0402_1_AgendaBdMtg-T.pdf
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.