AK HB374

Establishes the Alaska Prescription Drug Task Force within the Department of Health and Social Services to develop strategies for managing prescription drug costs and increasing affordable access to medications for state residents.

Task force consists of 10 members appointed by the governor, including representatives from state departments, a licensed pharmacist, insurance industry representative, consumer, employee benefit plan representative, and primary care physician.

Task force shall consider strategies including discount programs for seniors, fair pricing policies, manufacturer disclosure requirements, prescriber education programs, disease management programs, joint drug purchasing negotiations, and promotion of generic drug use.

Task force members serve without compensation but receive per diem and travel expenses, must select a chair, meet at least three times, and may conduct meetings by teleconference.

Task force shall hold public hearings and submit findings and recommendations to the governor and legislature by the 30th day of the First Regular Session of the Twenty-Seventh Alaska State Legislature.