2020 is THE Year

Here it is, less than two weeks into the new year (new decade!) and there are already strong, positive signs in the fight for PBM reform. PUTT is making a bold prediction: 2020 is THE year!

Since January 1:

• Dr. Wayne Winegarden, Director of the Pacific Research Institute's Center for Medical Economics and Innovation, released a brief arguing PBM regulation or removal is the only access to truly lower U.S. drug prices and healthcare costs.
• Georgia's Anti-Steering law took effect. With indications PBMs were already ignoring the law, Georgia pharmacist and pharmacy owner Nikki Bryant testified at the capitol, leading lawmakers to act quickly to  "reverse the corporate takeover of (Georgia) healthcare".
• Florida Representative Jackie Toledo's Prescription Drug Cost Reduction bill (HB961)saw a companion bill filed in the Senate by Sen. Gayle Harrell.
• More than 200 New York pharmacists and patient advocates gathered in Albany to protest Gov. Cuomo's veto of comprehensive PBM Regulation bill S6531. The rally took place prior to the Governor's State of the State Address. Advocates continue to work to revive the bill as the 2020 legislative session begins..
• Illinois state Senator Andy Manar said he intends to file a bill this month that would remove PBMs from the state's Medicaid, state employee health and retiree programs, saving millions in taxpayer dollars. 
• On January 10th the U.S. Supreme Court decided to hear Rutledge v PCMA, Arkansas' landmark case against ERISA preemption. The outcome of this case could set precedent for prescription drug pricing transparency across the nation.

​This is just the beginning. PUTT will continue to update as momentum against PBM fraud, waste and abuse continues. Look for #2020isTHEyear and post your own updates with the same hashtag. Here's to an exciting year ahead!