North Carolina
SB 479, the Supporting Community Retail Pharmacies and Improving Transparency (SCRIPT) Act, has been signed by Gov. Josh Stein (D). Effective upon signature, the bill extends the current Medicaid reimbursement paid to pharmacies from July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2031. Additionally, it makes sweeping reforms to pharmacy and prescription drug regulations by expanding patient choice; increasing transparency and oversight of PBMs and pharmacy services administrative organizations (PSAOs); strengthening fair reimbursement and network practices; mandating drug price disclosures; and enhancing consumer protections across the state.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Leigh Knotts at 803-243-7207.
Ohio
Sen. Mark Romanchuk (R) has introduced SB 230, legislation permitting pharmacists to test and treat patients for flu, strep, COVID-19, RSV and other respiratory conditions as specified in future rules adopted by the Board of Pharmacy. The Legislature has adjourned for the summer, so we do not expect any action on the bill before the fall.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Jill McCormack at 717-592-8977.
Oklahoma
The US Supreme Court has declined to review the PCMA v. Mulready case, marking a significant setback for efforts to protect patients and pharmacies from harmful practices by PBMs. This decision upholds the 10th Circuit’s ruling, which struck down key provisions of the state’s Patient’s Right to Pharmacy Choice Act on the grounds that they are preempted by ERISA and Medicare Part D. As a result, the state now faces limited options for safeguarding pharmacies and ensuring patient access to the medications they need.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.
Oregon
The Prescription Drug Affordability Board posted its draft agenda and meeting materials for the July 16 meeting. Register here in advance.
Also in Oregon, the Board of Pharmacy is proposing to adopt the following rules:
The July 22 Rulemaking Hearing will be held virtually via Teams and begins at 9:30 am. If you wish to provide virtual oral testimony during the hearing, please complete and submit the Rulemaking Hearing Testimony Sign Up Form on the board's website. You may also sign up by submitting your first and last name, email address and which rule(s) you would like to comment on to pharmacy.rulemaking@bop.oregon.gov no later than 9:00 am on July 22. You will receive a confirmation email and a calendar invitation to join the virtual hearing. Written comments must be received by 4:30 pm on July 22. Submit written comments to pharmacy.rulemaking@bop.oregon.gov. If you would like to listen to the rulemaking hearing, join the virtual Teams meeting or call: (503) 446-4951 Phone Conference ID: 429 564 160#. Email all rulemaking inquiries to pharmacy.rulemaking@bop.oregon.gov.
Also in Oregon, the Board of Pharmacy is proposing to adopt the following rule: Div 110 – Licensee & Registrant Fee Increase. The August 21 Rulemaking Hearing will be held virtually via Teams and begins at 9:30 am. If you wish to provide virtual oral testimony during the hearing, please complete and submit the Rulemaking Hearing Testimony Sign Up Form on the board's website. You may also sign up by submitting your first and last name, email address and which rule(s) you would like to comment on to pharmacy.rulemaking@bop.oregon.gov no later than 9:00 am on August 21. You will receive a confirmation email and a calendar invitation to join the virtual hearing. Written comments must be received by 4:30 pm on August 21. Submit written comments to pharmacy.rulemaking@bop.oregon.gov. If you would like to listen to the rulemaking hearing, join the virtual Teams meeting or call: (503) 446-4951 Phone Conference ID: 340 244 93 #. Email all rulemaking inquiries to pharmacy.rulemaking@bop.oregon.gov.
Finally in Oregon, the state's Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) updated its food package effective July 1 for participants to enhance nutrition and expand choice for families statewide. The state's WIC participants may shop for food on the updated list using their benefit card at any of the WIC-authorized grocery stores across the state. Enhancements to the WIC Food Package include more fruits and vegetables; a wider variety of protein and plant-based options; more cheese varieties; new yogurt brands with reduced added sugar; new plant-based milks; and new nut and seed butters.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Sandra Guckian at 703-774-4801.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Leigh Knotts at 803-243-7207.
For more information, please contact NACDS’ Mike Sargent at 207-272-6435.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Jill McCormack at 717-592-8977.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.
Pennsylvania
Gov. Josh Shapiro (D) signed SB 95 into law on July 7. It was effective upon his signature. The law allows for pharmacist licensure by endorsement for 180 days to assist with the increased number of new prescriptions coming into stores due to pharmacy closures in the state. A provisional license application will be posted on the Board of Pharmacy's website soon. NACDS thanks the Pennsylvania Association of Chain Drug Stores (PACDS) for working with members to get this bill across the finish line remarkably quickly during a very challenging budget season.
Also in Pennsylvania, the long-awaited Pharmacy Technician Registration Regulations were finalized and effective on June 27.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Jill McCormack at 717-592-8977.
Rhode Island
The 2025 legislative session has wrapped up. Notably, SB 114 was enacted which would prohibit discriminatory practices in the reimbursement of 340B covered entities and their contract pharmacies. Additionally, SB 314 was enacted to limit pharmacies to no more than one on-site audit per carrier within a twelve-month period, unless there is a reasonable suspicion of fraud or misrepresentation. The State Attorney General will have the authority to enforce compliance with this measure.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Leigh Knotts at 803-243-7207.
South Carolina
Effective for dates of service on or after August 1, the Department of Health and Human Services (SCDHHS) will require prior authorization (PA) for the physician-administered drugs in the document linked below to ensure use is consistent with the medication’s indication(s) and appropriate clinical guidelines. This change only applies to medications administered to Healthy Connections Medicaid members enrolled in the fee-for-service (FFS) Medicaid program.
The list of physician-administered drugs for which a PA is required when administered to a FFS Medicaid member is available in the Procedure Codes section of the Physicians Services Provider Manual on the SCDHHS website. The list in the manual will be updated with the additional physician-administered drugs requiring a PA beginning August 1. The list of additional drugs is available online.
Requests for PA and questions should be submitted to Prime Therapeutics Management at https://gatewaypa.com or by calling 1-800-424-8219 between 8:00 am-5:00 pm Monday-Friday.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Leigh Knotts at 803-243-7207.
South Dakota
The Board of Pharmacy published its July 2025 newsletter. Highlights including the following: South Dakota Board Welcomes Newly Licensed Pharmacists; In-State Pharmacies and Wholesalers; [Reminder] Pharmacist License Renewals; Updates to South Dakota Codified Laws (SDCL) 36-11 and SDCL 36-11A; Updates to Administrative Rules of South Dakota (ARSD) 20:51 and ARSD 20:67; PDMP Update; and Board of Pharmacy meeting dates, pharmacy contacts and staff.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Sandra Guckian at 703-774-4801.
Texas
The Department of Insurance (DOI) Advisory Committee for the Standard Request Form for Prior Authorization of Prescription Drug Benefits will hold a public meeting on August 5 to discuss and take possible action on the standard prior authorization request form. As required by Insurance Code Section 1369.305(d), the advisory committee will:
- Review the adopted standard prior authorization request form.
- Examine the form's effectiveness and impact on patient safety.
- Determine whether changes are needed to the form.
Also in Texas, SB 1188, legislation ensuring electronic health records that contain patient information are maintained in the United States or a US territory, was signed into law by Gov. Greg Abbott (R).
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.
Washington
Effective July 1, the Health Care Authority (HCA) Apple Health (Medicaid) added a new section to the audio-only behavioral health procedure code list for HCPCS codes billable for Reentry Targeted Case Management (rTCM). The revised list is posted online under "Billing guides and fee schedules"; click on "Reentry services".
Also in Washington, Apple Health (Medicaid) announced changes to the State Maximum Allowable Costs (SMAC) list for the fee-for-service (FFS) Prescription Drug Program effective September 1. The full SMAC list can be found on the agency's Provider billing guides and fee schedules website under the Prescription Drug Program and applies to claims billed to FFS.
Also in Washington, the Health Care Authority (HCA) Prescription Drug Program's third quarter Preferred Drug List has been posted.
Also in Washington, the Health Care Authority (HCA) created a toolkit called Apple Health is Medicaid Communications Toolkit to assist providers, community leaders and advocates to help Washingtonians access care.
Finally in Washington, in an effort to effort to help prevent opioid misuse and overdose deaths, Fred Meyer's 60 pharmacies partnered with the Health Care Authority (HCA) to provide free locking bags to patients to more safely store their opioid prescriptions. The HCA's Lock Up Your Meds safe storage program is part of the statewide Starts with One campaign to prevent opioid overdoses by increasing the safe use, storage and disposal of opioid prescriptions.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.
West Virginia
The Secretary of State published a series of new proposed Board of Pharmacy rules that would implement legislation adopted in the 2025 session. Note that these include rules that allow pharmacist and technician licensing reciprocity and streamlining and that include a prohibition on dispensing abortion drugs and gender altering drugs for non-adults. Comments are due to the Board of Pharmacy by 5:00 pm on July 17.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Jill McCormack at 717-592-8977.
Wyoming
The Department of Health confirmed a case of measles in an unvaccinated child from Natrona County. This case is the first reported in the state since 2010.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Sandra Guckian at 703-774-4801.
Alaska
The Board of Pharmacy is seeking input on a Just Culture Workplaces Survey. The results of this survey will be discussed by the board at the August 21 meeting.
Also in Alaska, the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP) will require the following data elements starting July 30:
- AIR09 & AIR10: Full first and last name of the dispensing pharmacist (no initials).
- DSP15: Pharmacist's state license number.
- PAT20: Species Code (01: Human, 02: Animal) – required.
- PAT23: Animal name – required if PAT20 is "02".
Submissions with missing required fields will be rejected beginning on July 30. Please refer to the AK Data Submission Dispenser Guide v3.1 via the PMP Clearinghouse portal for detailed instructions.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.
Arkansas
NACDS sponsored the Arkansas Pharmacist Association's (APA) annual meeting. Gov. Sarah Huckaby Sanders (R) spoke about the importance of supporting our patients and their access to affordable healthcare. Chain and independent pharmacists thanked the Governor for her support of the profession and patients by protecting pharmacy access and ensuring patients across the state receive the care they deserve.
Also in Arkansas, the Insurance Department issued Bulletin No. 9-2025, Arkansas 2025 Legislation report, summarizing newly adopted insurance laws.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.
California
The Department of Health Care Service posted the following alerts on the Medi-Cal Rx Web Portal. As previously announced in the alert titled 60-Day Countdown: NCPDP Field 426-DQ Usual and Customary Charge Requirement, pharmacy providers submitting claims to Medi-Cal Rx with a date of service (DOS) on or after July 18 will be required to include their Usual and Customary (U&C) charge in NCPDP Field 426-DQ (Usual and Customary Charge). Claims submitted for the DOS on or after July 18 with a blank dollar amount or a value of $0.00 will be denied by Medi-Cal Rx with Reject Code DQ – M/I Usual and Customary Charge with the supplemental message "Resubmit claim with U&C charge in field 426-DQ."
- Reminder: Combined Medi-Cal Rx Provider Payment Releases to Occur on July 9, 2025, and July 15, 2025
Also in California, the Board of Pharmacy issued the following update regarding the California Medication Error Reporting (CAMER) system. An orientation webinar is being offered by the Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP) at 1:00 pm Pacific on July 9. Also, medication errors that occur on or after September 1 must be reported to the CAMER system. For your convenience, here's a link to the CA Board of Pharmacy Medication Error Reporting System website hosted by ISMP.
Business and Professions Code (BPC) section 4113.1 establishes requirements for a community pharmacy to report medication errors to an entity approved by the Board. The statute requiring medication error reporting by community pharmacies can be viewed at BPC section 4113.1. The Board approved ISMP, an ECRI Company, as the entity to receive and review medication error reports under BPC section 4113.1.
Consistent with its commitment to keep licensees apprised of implementation activities related to the California Medication Error Reporting (CAMER) system, the Board is providing the following updates:
- ISMP will be holding an orientation webinar at 1:00 p.m. Pacific Time on July 9. Registration for the orientation webinar is available online. To view, go to FAQ and then "Will there be training or orientation sessions for how to use the reporting system and submit reports?".
- ISMP posted additional information related to reporting data elements. To view, go to FAQ and then "Which data elements will be built into the reporting system?".
Also in California, the Office of Administrative Law approved the Board of Pharmacy's updated compounding regulations. The regulations describe the Board's requirements for nonsterile compounding, sterile compounding, hazardous drug and radiopharmaceutical preparations.
The regulation is effective October 1. The Board will be releasing an updated policy statement regarding its expectations during the transition period. The Order of Adoption for the approved regulation regarding the compounding regulations has been posted.
Also in California, the Board of Pharmacy proposes taking rulemaking action related to "Medication-Assisted Treatment Protocol". The proposed text is available for review on the Board's website. Written comments must be received by the Board no later than August 4 or must be received by the Board at the hearing, if one is scheduled. Inquiries or comments may be addressed to:
- Lori Martinez Address: 2720 Gateway Oaks Drive, Ste. 100, Sacramento, CA 95833; Phone: (916) 518-3100; Fax.: (916) 574-8618; or e-Mail Address: PharmacyRulemaking@dca.ca.gov
- The backup contact person is: Debbie Damoth Address: 2720 Gateway Oaks Drive, Ste. 100, Sacramento, CA 95833; Phone: (916) 518-3100; Fax.: (916) 574-8618; or e-Mail Address: PharmacyRulemaking@dca.ca.gov
Finally in California, the Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) has been formally approved by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to participate in the federal Cell and Gene Therapy (CGT) Access Model, with implementation effective July 1. This model is designed to improve access to high-cost, high-impact gene therapies for Medi-Cal members with complex conditions, starting with sickle cell disease (SCD). The initial therapies included in this model are Casgevy and Lyfgenia.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Sandra Guckian at 703-774-4801.
Indiana
The Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA) Health Coverage Programs (IHCP) issued a Bulletin documenting requirements clarified for claims billed to Medicaid for dually eligible members.
Also in Indiana, IHCP reminded providers about the benefits of submitting claims electronically and provided pharmacy updates approved by the Office of Medicaid Policy and Planning.
Also in Indiana, IHCP announced that effective July 1, they will expand provider enrollment to include licensed pharmacists. This new provider specialty will allow eligible pharmacists to enroll as rendering providers linked to a group provider. Group providers may be reimbursed for evaluation and management (E/M) services related to hormonal contraceptives provided by IHCP-enrolled pharmacists, as outlined in Indiana Code IC 25-26-25.
Finally in Indiana, the Office of Medicaid Policy and Planning is seeking applicants to serve on the Medicaid Advisory Committee which provides feedback on the program policies and proposed policies that ensure the program is responsive to concerns as well as providing transparency and accountability.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.
Kansas
Gov. Laura Kelly (D) appointed two new pharmacists members to the Board of Pharmacy, Joanna Robinson, PharmD, MS, BCSCP, and Janine Ohler, PharmD, BCPS. They will each serve a four-year term and are replacing Jonathan Brunswig, PharmD, and William Walden, RPh, both of whom served eight years on the board.
Also in Kansas, SB 63 which became law earlier this year on February 20, requires in Section 4 that "if a healthcare provider violates the provisions of Section 3 of the law, the healthcare provider has engaged in unprofessional conduct and, notwithstanding any provision of law to the contrary, the license of such healthcare provider shall be revoked by the appropriate licensing entity or disciplinary review board with competent jurisdiction in this state".
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.
Louisiana
Gov. Jeff Landry (R) urged lawmakers during the final week of the session to amend HB 358, permitting a pharmacy technician to work remotely by Rep. Dustin Miller (R). The Governor wanted to include an amendment prohibiting PBMs from owning pharmacies. While the House quickly concurred with the Governor's language, the Senate declined to bring the bill up for a final vote on the last day of the session on June 12. Gov. Landry pledged to convene a special session this summer to encourage legislators to lower drug prices and help preserve independent pharmacies. Attorney General Liz Murrill (R) sent CVS a cease-and-desist order to prevent pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) from lobbying customers about pending legislation and issued a statement saying she would investigate whether the text messages about the bill were appropriate.
Also in Louisiana, lawmakers passed and sent to Gov. Landry for approval HB 264 by Rep. Michael Echols (R), prohibiting PBMs from engaging in spread pricing, patient steering and the use of effective rate pricing. The bill applies to local pharmacies only, defined as those with ownership in Louisiana of 10 or fewer pharmacies. The bill also establishes a reimbursement floor using NADAC, enhances transparency and audit protections, passes through manufacturer rebates to consumers, and grants additional enforcement authority to the Insurance Commissioner. Lastly, the proposed law modifies the composition of the Pharmacy Benefit Monitoring Advisory Council and adds a chain pharmacist appointed by the Louisiana Alliance of Retail Pharmacies (LARP).
Also in Louisiana, Gov. Jeff Landry (R) signed HB 565 by Rep. Annie Spell (R), legislation prohibiting Medicaid managed care organizations (MCOs) from amending, modifying, or changing a claim submitted by a healthcare provider or adjusting, down coding or paying a claim at a lower level than what was submitted by the healthcare provider. To the extent MCOs violate these provisions, the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) shall withhold payment to the MCO an amount to be determined by LDH not less than $25,000 or greater for each violation.
Also in Louisiana, HB 690 by Rep. Charles Owens (R), requiring the state surgeon general to promulgate rules for the administration of Emergency Use Authorizations (EUA) related medical activities by all members of the healthcare community, including hospitals, public and private clinics, pharmacies, nursing homes and other entities involved in healthcare activities where EUA may apply, was sent to Gov. Jeff Landry (R).
Also in Louisiana, House Resolution 314 by Rep. Rodney Lyons (D) requesting that the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) provide access to vaccines and information on the diseases they prevent to areas of need, passed the House and was sent to the Secretary of State.
Finally in Louisiana, the Department of Health published two rules in the June Register.
- The emergency drug kit (EDK) permit removes the requirement for the administrator of the applicant facility to sign the application for the EDK permit, and requires the online permit verification to be readily retrievable, since the board no longer issues paper permits.
- The Pharmacist-in-Charge (PIC) change reduces the minimum experience requirement for a pharmacist to qualify for a PIC privilege from two years of active pharmacy practice to one year. It also adds the authority and accountability of the owner of the pharmacy permit to the existing responsibility of the PIC for the complete supervision, management and compliance with laws and regulations pertaining to the practice of pharmacy of the entire prescription department.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.
Mississippi
The Board of Pharmacy is seeking a Pharmacy Benefit Manager Compliance Director. This position will oversee PBM compliance, policy development and administrative actions as directed by legislative authority regarding PBM activities, as outlined in the Pharmacy Benefit Prompt Pay Act, the Pharmacy Benefit Audit Integrity Act and other applicable state and federal laws and regulations. The individual will serve as the agency’s primary point of contact with internal and external stakeholders for PBM matters. This position welcomes applications from both non-pharmacists and pharmacists. As stated in the job description, the successful candidate’s actual salary will be based on their relevant experience.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Leigh Knotts at 803-243-7207.
Missouri
The Department of Social Services MO HealthNet Division (Medicaid) adopted an emergency rule for the Pharmacy Reimbursement Allowance (PRA). The emergency amendment was filed on June 23 and takes effect on July 8 and expires February 26, 2026.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.
Nebraska
The Department of Health and Human Services published Provider Bulletin 25-10: Pharmacy Dispensing Fee Increase. Effective July 1, all pharmacies who fill a prescription for a Medicaid Fee-for-Service member will receive a professional dispensing fee rate increase from $10.38 to $10.50. Independent pharmacies, defined as those who own six or fewer pharmacies, who fill a prescription for a Medicaid managed care member will receive a professional dispensing fee rate increase from $10.38 to $10.50.
Also in Nebraska, the Department of Health and Human Services published Provider Bulletin 25-09: Changes to the Nebraska Medicaid Preferred Drug List (PDL) effective July 18.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Sandra Guckian at 703-774-4801.
Nevada
Gov. Joe Lombardo (R) vetoed AB 259, legislation that would have set a fixed “maximum fair price” for drugs – a price dictated solely by a government standard – while excluding important costs such as the fees that pharmacies charge to dispense medications. Instead of imposing experimental price controls that could worsen drug shortages, NACDS and the coalition opposed to the bill recommended the administration focus on innovative solutions that lower drug costs without undermining access to essential medications or placing undue strain on our healthcare providers.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.
New Jersey
On June 19, the Assembly Committee on Financial Institutions and Insurance held another hearing on A4953. The Committee approved an amendment that would provide for a commercial rate floor, clarify the definition of network and non-network pharmacies and require fiduciary duties for PBMs. The bill remains in the committee.
Also in New Jersey, on June 23, the Senate Committee on Commerce held a hearing on the "State of PBMs in New Jersey." NACDS submitted written testimony. Panels before the committee included those representing PBMs, pharmaceutical companies, health insurers and pharmacies. NACDS will continue to encourage the committee to take action to reform PBMs.
For more information, please contact NACDS’ Mike Sargent at 207-272-6435.
New York
The State Department of Health announced that effective July 1, several drug manufacturers voluntarily withdrew from participation in the Medicaid Drug Rebate Program (MDRP). The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), in compliance with Social Security Law Sec. 1927 [42 U.S.C. 1396r–8] (a), requires drug manufacturers to participate in the MDRP for their drugs to be eligible for coverage under the Medicaid program. Prescribers and pharmacies are encouraged to assist members with a therapeutically equivalent generic or to obtain a new prescription for an available alternative.
Also in New York, the Board of Pharmacy met on June 26. The agenda included a presentation by the Department of Health's Bureau of Narcotic Enforcement and a discussion of prescription transfers, shared pharmacy services regulations, Legislative matters and board meeting dates/locations.
For more information, please contact NACDS’ Mike Sargent at 207-272-6435.
North Carolina
The Department of Health and Human Services Commission for Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Substance Abuse Services (Commission) proposed to amend, via permanent procedures, Rule 10A NCAC 26E .0406, Disposal of Unused Controlled Substances from Nursing Home. The Commission also proposes adopting, via permanent procedures, Rule 10A NCAC 27G .3605, Medication Units and Mobile Units. Both proposed rules are available on the Commission for MH/DD/SAS Proposed Rules page.
The public comment period for both rules runs June 17 through August 15. Written comments on the proposed rule must be submitted electronically to dmhddsasrules@dhhs.nc.gov or mailed to W. Denise Baker, 3001 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-3001.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Leigh Knotts at 803-243-7207.