AK HB46

Establishes the Alaska Prescription Drug Task Force within the Department of Health and Social Services to address rising prescription drug costs and improve affordable access for state residents.

Task force comprises 10 members appointed by the governor, including representatives from state agencies, a licensed pharmacist, insurance industry representative, prescription drug consumer, and primary care physician.

Task force shall consider strategies including discount programs for seniors, fair pricing policies, manufacturer disclosure requirements, practitioner education on generic and lower-cost alternatives, disease management programs, and joint prescription drug purchasing negotiations.

Task force shall hold public hearings and solicit citizen input on increasing affordable prescription drug access, then submit findings and recommendations to the governor and legislature by the 30th day of the Second Regular Session of the Twenty-Seventh Alaska State Legislature.

Members serve without compensation but receive per diem and travel expenses; task force must meet at least three times annually and may conduct meetings via teleconference.