HF1523 Summary

• Directs the Commissioner of Human Services to establish and administer a Minnesota prescription drug purchasing program to make prescription drugs available at the lowest possible cost to eligible participants.

• Expands program eligibility to include medical assistance and MinnesotaCare enrollees under both fee-for-service and managed care delivery systems, plus individual health insurance enrollees through MNsure or direct purchase from participating health plan companies.

• Grants the commissioner authority to adopt preferred drug lists, negotiate prices with drug manufacturers and wholesalers for discounts and rebates, and develop drug formularies for MinnesotaCare and the individual insurance market in consultation with the formulary committee.

• Requires all pharmacies participating as medical assistance providers and any other pharmacy licensed under Minnesota law willing to accept program terms and conditions to be enrolled in the program.

• Effective January 1, 2020, or upon federal approval, whichever is later, with the commissioner required to seek necessary federal approvals for implementation.