HI HB2561

Establishes a prescription affordability commission within the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs with five members appointed by the governor to review prescription drug costs and establish reimbursement levels.

Requires manufacturers to notify the commission 30 days before introducing brand-name drugs costing $30,000+ annually or increasing prices by over 10% or $10,000 per year; generic drugs at $3,000+ annually or 25%+ increases or $300+ per year.

Authorizes the commission to conduct affordability reviews, access pricing information, set rates and payment limits, assess fees on manufacturers and health insurers, and penalize non-compliance.

Establishes a prescription affordability special fund to support commission operations, funded through manufacturer and health plan assessment fees, penalties, and legislative appropriations.

Applies to state-sponsored and state-regulated health plans but excludes ERISA plans and Medicare Part D plans, though in-state providers must bill at commission-established upper payment limits; effective July 1, 2050.