NJ A6209

Requires patients prescribed a brand drug for the first time to receive a biosimilar instead if one is available, with an appeals process for healthcare providers to request exceptions

Mandates that Medicaid managed care organizations and State/School Employees' Health Benefits Program vendors publish complete, publicly accessible formulary lists online, updated within 30 days of any changes

Requires immediate formulary placement of FDA-approved generic drugs and biosimilars with lower wholesale acquisition costs than reference products, with more favorable cost-sharing than brand-name alternatives

Prohibits imposing prior authorization, step therapy, or pharmacy restrictions on generic drugs and biosimilars that would make them harder to obtain than reference products

Applies to the State Medicaid program, State Health Benefits Program, and School Employees' Health Benefits Program, taking effect January 1, 2027