On Apr. 16, ARK LEG enacted bill prohibiting limited medication access.
ARK LEG enacted bill HB 1531 relating to restriction of prescription medications.
Amends ARK LEG 20-64-1 by adding new section on limited distribution of medication.
Bill Provisions
Pharmaceutical manufacturers shall not restrict prescription medications more than 3 months after launch of new product to a limited distribution network of pharmacies.
Without having similar access and allowing for upon request by pharmacy at least local network of academic medical center access, geographic diversity of access within State
Diverse access for local for-profit and nonprofit pharmacies in good standing with the board and the pharmacy meeting medication specific FDA guidance or requirements.
Manufacturer that requests for restricted networks for 6 months or longer shall present to board to explain how restriction will support and not hinder the mission of the board
Board mission to promote, preserve, protect public health, safety, welfare of citizens.
Public hearing shall be called as soon as possible to discuss and approve or deny any request for permanent limited network or restriction relating to Class A pharmacies.
State government, public plan sponsor shall not pay for prescription drugs from a manufacturer who is noncompliant with this section unless board granted a waiver.
If pharmaceutical manufacturer or manufacturer for Medicaid is not in compliance with this section, the board shall fine the manufacturer $10,000 per day of noncompliance.
Does not apply to the State and Public School Life and Health Insurance Program.
Legislative History
On Feb. 19, 2025, bill was introduced in House; on Apr. 1, 2025, bill passed House.
On Apr. 1, 2025, bill was introduced in Senate; on Apr. 8, 2025, bill passed Senate.
On Apr. 10, 2025, House concurred; On Apr. 16, 2025, bill signed by governor.
Effectiveness
Act effective 91 days after legislature adjourned sine die (May 5), so Aug. 4, 2025.
Pharmaceutical manufacturers shall be in compliance with act by Sep. 1, 2026.
Regulators
ARK LEG
Entity Types
CNSM; Corp; Ins
Reference
PR, Act 630, Bill HB1531, 4/16/2025; Citation: ARK LEG 20-64-1;
