CO HB1361

Prohibits health benefit plans and pharmacy benefit management firms from limiting or restricting a covered person's ability to select a pharmacy or pharmacist of their choice if the pharmacy or pharmacist is licensed in Colorado and agrees to contract terms.

Prohibits imposing higher co-payments, fees, or cost-sharing requirements on a covered person for selecting a non-preferred pharmacy unless the same requirements apply uniformly to all covered persons, pharmacists, and pharmacies in the state.

Prohibits imposing other conditions that limit or restrict a covered person's ability to use their chosen pharmacy, and prohibits denying participation in pharmacy networks to licensed pharmacies or pharmacists that agree to accept contract terms and provide compliant services.

Excludes pharmacy services for inpatient or emergency medical care in licensed or certified health facilities, as well as self-funded plans exempt under ERISA and plans for state or federal employees.

Takes effect August 10, 2016 (subject to referendum petition), and applies to health benefit plans issued, delivered, or renewed on or after January 1, 2018.