Alabama House Passes Bill to Support Independent Pharmacies, But Is It Enough?
Despite its passage in the House, some industry experts and pharmacists argue that the bill does not go far enough to curb PBM abuses.
The Alabama House of Representatives has passed a bill aimed at providing relief to independent pharmacies struggling against corporate competitors and burdensome regulations. While lawmakers tout this as a win for local businesses, questions remain about whether the legislation goes far enough to level the playing field.
The bill, which received bipartisan support, seeks to implement measures that would give independent pharmacies better reimbursement rates and increased protections from pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), the middlemen responsible for dictating drug prices and reimbursements. For years, independent pharmacists have raised concerns about PBMs undercutting their ability to stay in business, often favoring larger chains with better negotiating power.
According to Alabama Political Reporter, bill sponsor Rep. Phillip Rigsby said, “The system is rigged in favor of the PBMs and the big box stores, and the local pharmacists just don’t have a fighting chance.” Rigsby, a pharmacist himself, emphasized the importance of protecting small pharmacies from predatory practices.
The bill also received support from Rep. Craig Lipscomb, who stated, “We’ve got to find a way to fight for the little guy and make sure they’re not being unfairly treated.”
Rep. Mark Gidley also spoke in favor of the bill, stating, “Our independent pharmacies are the backbone of our communities. We must ensure they are treated fairly and can continue serving the people of Alabama.”
Despite its passage in the House, some industry experts and pharmacists argue that the bill does not go far enough to curb PBM abuses. Many independent pharmacy owners have reported drastic underpayments that force them to sell at a loss or drop certain medications altogether. Additionally, there is skepticism about whether enforcement mechanisms will be strong enough to prevent PBMs from exploiting loopholes.
“The reality is, unless we have strict oversight and accountability, PBMs will continue to squeeze the life out of small pharmacies,” said one independent pharmacist. “This bill is a start, but it’s not a fix.”
The legislation now moves to the Alabama Senate, where it is expected to face further debate. As independent pharmacies continue to battle financial uncertainty, the state’s response to their concerns will determine whether Alabama truly values its local healthcare providers or merely offers them symbolic relief.
Rep. Rigsby stressed, “If we want these independent pharmacies to survive, we have to act now.”
