UT SCR005

Directs the Public Employees' Benefit and Insurance Program (PEHP) to include at least one clinically appropriate non-opioid prescription drug alternative for each opioid prescription drug in its formulary, beginning with the 2027 plan year.

Prohibits PEHP from imposing cost sharing, prior authorization, step therapy, or other utilization review requirements on non-opioid drugs that are more restrictive than those placed on opioid drugs.

Allocates $150,000 for implementation, with PEHP required to request additional appropriation if costs exceed that amount.

Addresses coverage disparities in current insurance plans that create barriers to non-opioid medications through higher copays, prior authorization requirements, quantity limits, and unfavorable formulary placement.

Aligns with CDC guidelines recommending non-opioid therapies as first-line treatments for chronic pain to combat Utah's opioid epidemic.