The Legislature adjourned its biennial session on June 2.
Also in Texas, Gov. Greg Abbott (R) signed into law SB 1236, by Sen. Bryan Hughes (R) and Rep. Cody Harris (R), PBM reform legislation that provides fair and transparent contract protections for pharmacies, requires that a group number identifying the plan be on the enrollee's identification card, enhances audit protections and ensures compliance with existing laws. It will take effect on September 1, 2025.
Also in Texas, despite our efforts to successfully negotiate a compromise bill with the Texas Medical Association (TMA) and the Texas Pediatric Society and overcome the toxic anti-vaxxer environment and the Lt. Governor's prohibition on referring House bills that had more Democrat votes than Republicans, it was the strong opposition by grocers and the food industry opposing SB 25, Sen. Lois Kolkhorst's priority bill that killed HB 3540, legislation that would have allowed pharmacists to order and administer immunizations, and technicians to vaccinate.
Also in Texas, HB 3441, legislation amending current law relating to the liability of vaccine manufacturers that advertise a harmful vaccine, was sent to Gov. Greg Abbott (R).
Finally in Texas, Gov. Greg Abbott (R) has until June 2 to sign or veto any bills sent to him. If he does not sign or veto a bill within this period, it will automatically become law.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.