MS HB1468

Requires the Division of Medicaid to ensure that nonopioid drugs approved by the FDA for pain treatment or management are not disadvantaged or discouraged relative to opioid drugs on the mandatory preferred drug list.

Prohibits designating nonopioid pain drugs as nonpreferred if any opioid or narcotic pain drug is designated as preferred, and prevents more restrictive utilization controls (including prior authorization or step therapy requirements) for nonopioid drugs than those applied to opioid drugs.

Applies the nonopioid drug protections immediately upon FDA approval for pain treatment, regardless of division review status, and extends the requirement to managed care organizations and entities administering Medicaid programs under subsection (H).

Extends the repeal date of Section 43-13-117 from July 1, 2024 to July 1, 2028.

Effective July 1, 2024.