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.
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.