MD HB1013

Prohibits Maryland Medicaid, insurers, HMOs, and managed care organizations from applying prior authorization, step therapy, or fail-first requirements for FDA-approved nonopioid pain drugs that are more restrictive than those applied to opioid or narcotic pain drugs, effective July 1, 2026

Requires covered entities to provide coverage for nonopioid pain treatment drugs to the same extent as covered opioid or narcotic pain drugs

Mandates insurers and health plans submit plans to the Maryland Insurance Administration by December 1, 2026 demonstrating adequate coverage and access to a broad spectrum of pain management services, including nonopioid drugs and nonpharmacologic alternatives to opioids

Applies to insurers, nonprofit health service plans, health maintenance organizations, and pharmacy benefits managers operating in Maryland

Insurance provisions take effect January 1, 2026; Medicaid provisions take effect July 1, 2026