Warning: Bill numbers and names are based on text-to-speech transcript which may have errors due to transcription issues or ad hoc/incomplete language use by committee.
relative to state-sponsored prescription drug discount programs
Likely Text to Speech Error on Bill #
SB408 1505
Information Only00:07:43.695 - 10:05:09 AM
Opens the executive session discussion on Senate Bill 408, confirms there are no other amendments besides 1505 adopted on April 14th, and notes that the amendment was distributed yesterday.
SB408 1505
Information Only00:12:00.770 - 10:09:26 AM
Discusses key provisions in the amendment on line 15 regarding utilization management by insurance companies, limitations to one extra prosthesis, and no multiple sports activities. Addresses cost concerns, confirming the maximum cost is $4.50 per member per month, with a low end of about $1.15 to $1.50, spread over five years, resulting in up to $20 for a four-member family annually at worst. Notes that the amendment differs from the previous version by removing the word 'blanket' and no blankets for aesthetics.
SB408 1505
Information Only00:12:49.716 - 10:10:15 AM
Corrects or clarifies the cost figures and amendment details during the discussion.
SB408 1505
Vote00:15:21.187 - 10:12:47 AM
Moves to pass amendment 1505, then moves ought to pass as amended (OTP A). The motions pass unanimously 18-0, and the bill is placed on the consent calendar.
SB482 1526-H
Information Only00:17:40.452 - 10:15:06 AM
Introduces the next bill, Senate Bill 482, and notes that Representative Ammon has distributed amendment 1526-H.
SB482 1526-H
Information Only00:18:28.365 - 10:15:54 AM
Moves ought to pass on amendment 1526-H, seconded by Representative Patusek. Explains the amendment as the work product of the subcommittee's work session yesterday, including deletion of section V (358-U:3(V)) for impractical inflation adjustment, and removal of subsection C in section IV (358-U:4(I)(c)) regarding licensing at Representative Speer's suggestion.
SB482 1526-H
Support00:19:17.119 - 10:16:43 AM
Representative Ammon credits Michael Padmore of AARP for initiating discussions in November involving the Attorney General's office, New Hampshire Banking Department, former FBI agents, company counsel, and Manchester PD. He highlights AARP's identification of scams targeting unsuspecting individuals unfamiliar with technology and notes the bill as amended is a compromise from those conversations. He emphasizes AARP's educational efforts, such as an event at St. Anselm's College to educate older people on avoiding pressure scams. Ammon stresses the Commerce Committee's role in facilitating commerce with appropriate guardrails, stating the bill balances free market needs. He explains the 72-hour new customer period for refunds up to $3,000, consumer notifications, receipts, and tracking to report scams to the Attorney General's Consumer Protection Office. In response to concerns, he notes the 72-hour window is at the lower end compared to other states but serves as a starting point, and assures the Attorney General would prioritize such cases.
SB482 1526-H
Information Only00:20:33.779 - 10:17:59 AM
Representative Walsh asks Representative Ammon if 72 hours is sufficient, inquiring about other states' norms.
SB482 1526-H
Oppose00:22:53.329 - 10:20:19 AM
Representative Sullivan expresses discomfort with the amendment for replacing the Senate bill entirely rather than adjusting it. He is concerned about removing the private right of action, limiting recourse to only the Attorney General, who may not pursue small claims of $2,000-$3,000 due to resource constraints. He argues 72 hours is too short, especially for vulnerable individuals like those with dementia, sharing a personal story about his father. Sullivan believes large transactions (thousands or tens of thousands) with 20-30% fees are likely scams, as sophisticated investors use lower-fee online portals. He feels the amendment fails to adequately prevent scams and prioritizes ATM owners over victims. Despite appreciating improvements like the $3,000 total cap, he will vote no to send it to the floor for broader debate, noting his evolving stance after further review.
SB482 1526-H
Support00:25:32.481 - 10:22:58 AM
In response to Representative Sullivan, Representative Ammon clarifies that the Attorney General would prioritize 72-hour window cases and notes that private right of action assumes the victim has resources to hire a lawyer post-scam. He points out Sullivan was on the subcommittee and suggestions were incorporated, suggesting late objections are untimely. Ammon reiterates the need to represent constituents and get the bill to the floor.
SB482 1526-H
Support00:27:44.786 - 10:25:10 AM
Representative Burroughs questions if the Attorney General would prioritize scam reports within the 72-hour window, contrasting with prior testimony from Brandon of the AG's office about resource limitations.
SB482 1526-H
Support00:30:02.477 - 10:27:28 AM
Representative Ammon closes by agreeing more protection is needed but emphasizes starting with something rather than nothing or interim study, which would delay progress. He compares targeting kiosks to banning gift cards or spam due to scams, arguing the issue is scammers, not the technology. He shares a personal scam experience via email and advocates for balanced regulation to make New Hampshire attractive for crypto business, like banking in Delaware or South Dakota. He supports sending the bill to the floor despite votes.
SB528
Oppose00:36:15.755 - 10:33:41 AM
Representative Sullivan moves for interim study, citing the amendment's short review time. She explains the fuzziness in determining 20% foreign ownership, using examples like small companies with volatile stocks or large ones like BAE Systems and Motorola not listed in reports. She resents the Secretary of State 'babysitting' legislators by restricting votes based on foreign ties, preferring independent judgment. Sullivan fears the bill could be weaponized with bogus claims against lobbyists, tying up processes. She acknowledges lobbyists' importance but seeks more work on the issue.
SB528
Support00:38:51.478 - 10:36:17 AM
Representative Speer clarifies the amendment focuses on disclosure of lobbyist representations, especially foreign involvement, rather than punishment. He notes the original bill targeted specific countries, but the list changes, so disclosure ensures full information. Penalties mirror existing RSA 15-1, misdemeanor for individuals and felony for corporations, to be reviewed by another committee. The amendment deletes a paragraph on agency lobbying to avoid hindering lobbyists' work, aiming for fairness without revolving foreign lists that might unfairly include allies like Canada.
SB528
Oppose00:42:35.099 - 10:40:01 AM
Representative Sullivan references prior discussion on burdening the AG's office, noting the amendment mirrors existing law penalties under 358A to avoid new burdens.
SB610 1497
Vote00:50:32.177 - 10:47:58 AM
Moves ought to pass on amendment 1497, which replaces the entire bill with enabling legislation for the insurance department on long-term care policies. Roll call vote passes 18-0. Then moves ought to pass as amended, which also passes 18-0. Places on consent calendar unanimously.
SB657 1491h
Support00:52:53.075 - 10:50:19 AM
Explains the amendment changes the title to 'relative to the use of information technology and artificial intelligence systems by state agencies.' It narrows the scope from a broad commission to utilizing the existing IT Council. Focuses on privacy, efficiency, transparency, accountability, and workforce effects. Ties into existing statutes and reporting. Encourages support as a pro-innovation bill.
SB657 1491h
Vote00:54:16.140 - 10:51:42 AM
Motion to ought to pass on amendment 1491h passes 18-0. Motion to ought to pass as amended passes 18-0. Places on consent calendar unanimously. Closes executive session.
SB657 1491h
Information Only00:56:18.060 - 10:53:44 AM
Asks who runs the IT Council and questions creating another commission since a governor's commission exists.
SB657 1491h
Information Only00:56:18.060 - 10:53:44 AM
Responds that the IT Council is run by Maeve Dion, is public via doit.nh.gov, and its charges are similar to the proposed commission.
SB455
Support01:07:22.520 - 11:04:48 AM
Introduces SB 455 to cover GLP-1 medications for obesity and diabetes under Medicaid when medically necessary. Explains GLP-1s mimic hormones to regulate blood sugar and appetite. Cites NH stats: 30% adults obese, 65% overweight/obese, 100,000 with diabetes, 250,000 at risk. Diabetes costs $1B annually due to complications like amputations ($90K each), kidney disease, heart disease. GLP-1s reduce weight 10-20%, improve blood sugar, reduce risks of heart attack/stroke. Shares personal story of weight loss and improved labs via GLP-1, avoiding diabetes. Notes downstream costs like hospitalizations ($20-40K) and dialysis ($90K/year). Medicaid serves 180,000 at high risk; bill shifts to prevention. Addresses fiscal note, market changes lowering prices, and aligns BMI 30+ with medical obesity definition. Aims to statutorily ensure coverage beyond 2026.
SB455
Information Only01:16:35.480 - 11:14:01 AM
Jokingly notes Senator looking at him during obesity discussion. Asks about side effects of GLP-1s, referencing past drug fen-phen's issues.
SB455
Information Only01:17:35.880 - 11:15:01 AM
Acknowledges side effects like nausea, slowed digestion, but notes FDA approval and long development. Compares to other covered meds; risks known and manageable.
SB455
Information Only01:18:31.240 - 11:15:57 AM
Notes personal experience paying out-of-pocket for GLP-1s, prices dropping to $250 via Medicare/Medicaid negotiation. Asks if fiscal note considers this and suggests aligning BMI to 35+ like Medicare.
SB455
Information Only01:19:47.608 - 11:17:13 AM
Notes market competition lowering prices. Defers fiscal note to department. Used BMI 30+ per medical definition from physicians, especially for cardiovascular risks; open to adjustments.
SB455
Support01:21:00.768 - 11:18:26 AM
Supports bill, compliments Senator. Concerns cultural shift to sedentary lifestyles causing obesity, especially in kids. Suggests emphasis on fitness before pills.
SB455
Information Only01:22:03.468 - 11:19:29 AM
Agrees; tried other paths before GLP-1. Supports longer recesses and notes committee's bill for active children with limb loss. Addresses sedentary issues via insurance mandate review.
SB455
Support01:23:00.788 - 11:20:26 AM
Supports bill. Notes current system absurdity: pay out-of-pocket to get healthy, then lose qualification. Must get sick again for coverage. Bill helps, starts with Medicaid.
SB455
Information Only01:24:09.108 - 11:21:35 AM
Confirms for Medicaid maintenance; allows staying on without coming off.
SB455
Support01:25:15.990 - 11:22:41 AM
Supports SB 455. With 43 years experience, notes GLP-1s revolutionized diabetes/obesity care. Challenges judgment on body size; obesity is complex chronic disease with hormonal/genetic causes, not just discipline. Advocates equal access regardless of economics; discriminatory otherwise. GLP-1s prevent complications, cost-effective long-term despite high initial cost. Fiscal note incomplete: ignores savings from prevented treatments, prices dropping; overlooks lifespan costs across insurers. Suggests coverage at lower BMIs to prevent issues; patients absurdly ask to gain weight to qualify. Shares patient story: Mr. Z, motivated but stuck at 299 lbs despite efforts; GLP-1 access via better insurance led to goal weight 189 lbs, eliminated meds, reduced risks.
SB455
Information Only01:33:02.994 - 11:30:28 AM
Asks if legislation should account for maintenance funding after health improves.
SB455
Information Only01:33:02.994 - 11:30:28 AM
Yes; chronic conditions like obesity remain treated, similar to high blood pressure meds; not cured but managed.
SB455
Oppose01:34:16.907 - 11:31:42 AM
Dr. Ballard testified that the Department opposes SB 455 because Medicaid already covers GLP-1 medications for conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and others, as well as for all children under 21. The bill would require coverage for adults with BMI over 30 for weight loss and obesity, which is currently not covered as it falls under non-covered services for weight loss per administrative rules and CMS guidelines. He highlighted the fiscal impact: an unfunded mandate costing $8.5 million in FY 2027, followed by $14.4 million in 2028 and $15.84 million in 2029, amid budget reductions. He noted market changes with patents expiring and prices dropping, and that few states cover these for weight loss, with some like California and Pennsylvania stopping coverage. The Department already covers other weight loss interventions like physical therapy and phentermine. During questions, he discussed federal programs like Balance and Generous, stating current rebates provide better deals, and long-term cost savings are uncertain without price reductions.
SB455
Support01:44:44.683 - 11:42:10 AM
Matt Prokop supported SB 455, emphasizing obesity as a costly chronic condition increasing Medicaid costs by $3,800 per person annually, totaling over $56 billion nationwide. Treating obesity prevents complications and saves money, especially for vulnerable Medicaid populations. He cited a study showing five-year benefits including $997 million in medical cost savings, $847 million in productivity gains, $7 billion in quality of life improvements, and $11.8 billion in mortality reduction. Individuals with obesity deserve access to evidence-based treatments like FDA-approved GLP-1 medications to improve health and reduce costs.
SB455
Support01:46:35.318 - 11:44:01 AM
Tamesha Malone, a patient living with obesity, supported SB 455, arguing it recognizes obesity as a chronic disease rather than a personal failure. She shared her experience of struggling despite efforts with diet and exercise, and how GLP-1 coverage has allowed her to live fully. Without coverage, patients face choices between affording life-sustaining medications or risking health decline, affecting their ability to be present for family. The bill addresses inequities where access depends on financial privilege, eroding trust in the healthcare system. Passing it would treat obesity with seriousness and compassion, giving people a fair chance at health.
SB455
Support01:49:14.186 - 11:46:40 AM
Liz Kennett supported SB 455 based on 40 years of experience witnessing devastation from untreated diabetes and obesity, which exacerbate conditions like hypertension, heart disease, and liver disease. She explained obesity's complexity involving genetics, medications, and biology, not just lifestyle. GLP-1 medications are disease-modifying, working on multiple body systems to enhance quality of life. She addressed cost concerns, noting CMS negotiations will reduce prices by 71% for some drugs by 2027, and long-term benefits include preventing expensive treatments like heart surgery. With obesity rates projected to reach 56-58% by 2050, covering GLP-1s via Medicaid would enable workforce participation and curb the epidemic.
SB455
Support01:53:14.953 - 11:50:40 AM
Dr. Finn advocated for SB 455, countering misinformation by noting 20 years of data showing GLP-1s improve cardiovascular health, reduce heart attacks and strokes, and extend life. Obesity is a disease driven by genetics and environment, beyond patient control; lifestyle changes yield only 5% weight loss, phentermine 5-8% without proven cardiovascular benefits, while GLP-1s achieve 15-20% with life-saving effects. She highlighted coverage losses starting January 2026 for Medicaid and commercial plans, leading to denials and patient suffering from metabolic adaptation, hunger, and weight regain despite lifestyle adherence. Excluding coverage based on costs ignores obesity's links to over 200 conditions; studies show GLP-1s are cost-effective with health and monetary benefits outweighing expenses. Unlike other diseases, Medicaid patients lack options beyond surgery; the bill bridges this gap for equitable access.
SB480
Support02:00:04.209 - 11:57:30 AM
Senator Prentice introduced SB 480 to improve access to physical and occupational therapy by allowing up to eight visits without prior authorization per occurrence, promoting cost-effective early intervention to avoid expensive downstream care like surgeries. She compared costs: PT courses cost $1,000-$3,000 versus $30,000-$150,000 for surgeries. Early PT reduces surgery likelihood, opioid use, and need for imaging or injections. Current limits cause delays due to reauthorization paperwork and workforce shortages, pushing patients to the back of lines and worsening conditions. The bill ensures immediate access for initial evaluations and medically necessary treatments while maintaining insurer oversight, leading to better outcomes and efficient healthcare spending, especially in rural areas.
SB480
Information Only02:06:12.909 - 12:03:38 PM
Michelle Heaton provided neutral testimony on SB 480, noting changes to prior authorization rules with initial data available on the department's website. The number of visits without prior auth varies by carrier, diagnosis, and plan design, often requiring a PCP referral. There is no standard blanket amount, as carriers use clinical guidelines. She emphasized this is a legislative decision but offered to answer questions.
SB480
Support02:08:56.879 - 12:06:22 PM
Dr. Adams testified in support of SB 480, which limits prior authorization requirements for physical therapy and occupational therapy until after eight visits. She highlighted that physical therapists are licensed clinicians providing evidence-based care, with national data showing 85-90% of episodes completed within 12 visits. She explained that current prior authorizations often allow only 4-6 visits, causing interruptions and delays that increase risks of worsened conditions, unnecessary medical visits, and prolonged recovery. Early intervention is crucial for returning to work, avoiding surgery, or staying safe at home. She noted administrative burdens and cost savings potential, as physical therapy reduces downstream costs by up to 50%. Other states have similar laws without premium increases. She presented a coalition document from various organizations advocating for prior authorization reforms to ensure timely care.
SB480
Support02:17:00.803 - 12:14:26 PM
Amanda Packard supported SB 480, emphasizing that prior authorization aims to prevent waste but adds little value in the first eight visits of physical or occupational therapy. She cited medical literature supporting completion of care within 12 visits and argued that eight visits serve as a guardrail against higher downstream costs without being a blank check. Delays of 1-2 weeks affect 30% of patients, with 78-83% abandoning care entirely, leading to harm. She stressed holding systems accountable for access to care and noted that private negotiations aren't working, making this a public issue requiring legislative support for timely care in New Hampshire.
SB480
Support02:21:03.674 - 12:18:29 PM
Deirdre Daly, with over 40 years as a physical therapist, supported SB 480 by discussing the erosion of medical necessity determinations from providers to insurers over decades. She noted that approvals have decreased from 12 visits to 4-6 or fewer, acting as partial denials without appeal. Few cases of waste or fraud are reported to the licensure board, suggesting cost containment targets a non-issue. Data shows 12 visits are reasonable and effective, aligning with insured benefits. She highlighted contradictions in administrative burdens and urged rebalancing by supporting the bill to restore access for conditions like cardiac events, surgeries, stroke, or Parkinson's that often require more than 12 visits.
SB480
Support02:25:36.367 - 12:23:02 PM
Danielle Amaro, an occupational therapist with over 30 years of experience, supported SB 480, reiterating the paperwork burden and patient frustration from prior authorizations. She described scheduling delays, like waiting 7-10 days after evaluation, preventing timely follow-up for pain management. As a current PT patient post-foot surgery, she experienced the frustration of sessions focused on paperwork rather than progress. She cannot apply for more visits until after the initial allowance, often the fourth visit. As an educator, she teaches ethics and medical necessity, ensuring therapists provide only necessary care, not exploiting eight visits. With over 900 OTs in NH, many in outpatient settings, the bill allows pain control and progress planning within eight visits for better outcomes.
SB480
Oppose02:29:54.348 - 12:27:20 PM
Sabrina Dunlap testified on SB 480, appreciating Senate amendments that improved the bill but expressing ongoing concerns. She argued that the bill effectively mandates at least eight physical therapy visits without prior authorization, interfering with Anthem's dynamic utilization management process tailored to individual patients. This process allows the first visit without authorization, followed by 4-30 visits based on submitted information, aiming to meet patient needs while preventing over-utilization. The bill's language on line seven requires carriers to provide coverage for not less than eight treatments before additional review, forcing incorporation of these costs into premiums and increasing overall costs unnecessarily. She referenced a similar Maine bill mandating 12 visits that raised PT costs without reducing high-cost interventions. Dunlap noted New Hampshire's existing prior authorization laws apply to PT and questioned the need for service-specific legislation, which could fragment the statutory framework. During questions, she explained the process involves quick digital submissions with fast turnaround times, bound by 72-hour statutory limits for non-urgent requests, emphasizing ease for providers and timely care for members.
SB544 Senate amendment
Support02:35:58.325 - 12:33:24 PM
Senator Donovan Fenton introduced SB 544 as amended by the Senate, speaking in support. The bill addresses fairness, predictability, and continuity of care for patients relying on prescription medications by requiring transparent notice for drug removals from formularies, extending the notice period to 60 days, informing patients of exemption processes, and ensuring coverage continues during appeals. It also mandates documentation of formulary changes and reasons. Fenton explained the amendment responded to insurer concerns by not prohibiting mid-year changes outright but making them less disruptive. The bill originated from a constituent's experience of losing access to a 10-year medication mid-year with inadequate notice and a difficult appeals process. It balances patient needs, especially in mental health, with insurer cost management, allowing lower-cost alternatives while preventing care gaps. Several states have banned mid-year changes, but this compromise was reached with insurers.
SB544 Senate amendment
Information Only02:39:03.925 - 12:36:29 PM
Michelle Heaton provided information on SB 544, noting it applies to all fully insured managed care markets except Medicare Advantage. She highlighted that the 60-day notice period allows ample time for appeals or exceptions requests, which must be decided within 48 hours for standard cases or 72 hours for expedited ones, preventing loss of access before resolution. The bill covers small group markets as well.
SB544 Senate amendment
Oppose02:40:12.987 - 12:37:38 PM
Cam Lapine testified in opposition to parts of SB 544 on behalf of Cigna. She praised lines 1-17, which were developed with Senator Fenton, but expressed concerns about lines 18-30 regarding documentation of formulary changes, noting uncertainty if health plans or PBMs hold the information. She suggested such requirements might fit better in other bills like SB 665 on PBMs.
SB544 Senate amendment
Information Only02:42:36.574 - 12:40:02 PM
Holly Stevens provided neutral testimony on SB 544, previously supporting the original Senate version but now neutral on the amended bill. She proposed an amendment to carve out continued coverage until contract year-end for enrollees actively taking removed medications via automatic exception approvals and awareness of the process. This would apply only to current users, not all plan members. Stevens emphasized the importance of maintaining psychiatric medications once effective, noting frequent mid-year formulary changes disrupt care, especially in mental health. She attached suggested language and is working with insurers on it.
SB614
Support03:43:10.028 - 1:40:36 PM
Representative Willie Walsh introduced SB 614 on behalf of Senator Denise Ricciardi, who submitted written testimony. The bill addresses the affordable child care crisis exacerbated by skyrocketing liability insurance premiums, with 68% of providers reporting increases in 2025, some up 300-1000%. New Hampshire lost 13% of licensed child care capacity since 2017 due to insurers exiting or pricing out providers. Walsh shared a story of a nonprofit center nearly closing after losing coverage. SB 614, bipartisan and passing the Senate unanimously, allows child care, foster care, and behavioral health providers to form self-insured risk pools for shared risk, collective purchasing, reserves, and risk management under oversight. Modeled on successful programs in other states, it supports workforce infrastructure by stabilizing the sector.
SB614
Support03:48:39.864 - 1:46:05 PM
Commissioner D.J. Betancourt supported SB 614, outlining the hard insurance market for liability coverage in child care, behavioral health, and DCYF-supporting entities, where premiums are high and availability constrained despite 8-12 carriers still offering it. Thin-margin nonprofits pass costs to families, limiting capacity amid high demand. The Department has engaged providers, brokers, and carriers for solutions, including guidance on risk mitigation. SB 614 authorizes pooled risk management programs as a long-term solution, allowing aggregation for affordable excess coverage under state oversight as a risk retention group (not a JUA). It includes Northeast regional participation for scale, with detailed applications ensuring actuarial soundness. Interim support includes matching providers with specialists. An amendment for the work session will clean up language. Betancourt addressed questions on differences from municipal pools like Primex, risks like sexual abuse/molestation driving the market (national issue with long-tail claims), and mitigation via best practices. Emily Doherty added on application requirements for viability.
SB614
Support04:21:13.193 - 2:18:39 PM
Jenny O'Higgins and Brian Clark from DHHS provided supportive information on SB 614, viewing it as a constructive step addressing liability insurance challenges for independent providers serving high-need children with mental/behavioral issues, critical for system constraints. It aligns with DHHS priorities in expanding child care, behavioral health, and DCYF services. While not a silver bullet and requiring multi-year efforts, it opens doors for affordability and expansion. DHHS commits to partnering with the Insurance Department, monitoring uptake, and supporting providers.
SB665
Support04:25:55.611 - 2:23:21 PM
Introduced SB 665 on behalf of Senator Denise Ricciardi, who is attending a policy roundtable in Washington, D.C. Read her written testimony explaining the bill's origin from constituent concerns about undisclosed lower-cost drug options by pharmacies and PBMs. Noted revisions by the Senate Health and Human Services Committee to broaden scope, addressing PBM agreements, reporting, fines, prohibition on steering to affiliated pharmacies, and requiring pharmacies to inform consumers of their right to request lowest prices. Expressed appreciation for Senate work and willingness to collaborate.
SB665
Information Only04:31:12.869 - 2:28:38 PM
Provided overview of SB 665, which rewrites parts of the PBM statute in RSA 402-N. Explained cleanup of PBM definitions to include those owned by insurers, removal of carve-outs, alignment with TPA requirements, written agreements, oversight, semi-annual reporting, fiduciary duties attributing PBM acts to carriers, investigative authority, savings clause, changes to managed care law 420-J, notice for audits, documentation, and allowance of spread pricing with disclosures. Noted carve-outs for Medicare, Medicaid, etc., and alignment with other bills like SB 455/544. Responded to questions on history, standard practices, and jurisdictional limits.
SB665
Oppose04:51:08.490 - 2:48:34 PM
Opposed specific sections of SB 665. Argued existing statutes already require pharmacies to charge the lowest of usual/customary or copay and prohibit gag clauses. Objected to mandating written contracts and fiduciary duties as unnecessary and potentially litigious, since PBMs lack discretion. Preferred annual over semi-annual reporting to avoid administrative burden, noting rebates are retrospective. Opposed anti-steering provision as counterintuitive and costly, referencing prior study committee findings. Suggested issues are fixable via amendments.
SB665
Information Only04:58:00.908 - 2:55:26 PM
Noted the bill's broad impact on insurance laws, including managed care, PBM chapter 402-N, and excess costs. Suggested identifying troublesome sections for potential removal or amendment, and considering interim study for deeper regulatory issues. Highlighted replication of Senator Fenton's bill on exceptions and adverse determinations. Questioned urgency, given ERISA preemption protections and departmental challenges.
SB665
Oppose05:01:38.916 - 2:59:04 PM
Opposed SB 665, identifying five issues. Suggested matching fines to $5,000 flat as in HB 1197. Criticized confusing statement of legislative intent. Preferred annual reporting over semi-annual for practicality, citing prior testimony. Opposed fiduciary duty, preferring good faith standard; mandatory semi-annual audits as burdensome; and anti-steering, suggesting disclosure for affiliates given any willing provider law. Supported contracts governing relationships.
SB665
Information Only05:07:17.942 - 3:04:43 PM
Acknowledged bill's intent to regulate carrier-affiliated PBMs but raised concerns about wording potentially subjecting non-PBM carriers like Harvard Pilgrim to PBM regulations. Suggested clarifying definitions to target owned PBMs only. Opposed statement of intent, anti-steering (even to non-affiliates), and mandatory audits as resource-intensive without benefit. Noted frequent monitoring already occurs and offered to work on clarifications.
SB647
Support05:11:13.231 - 3:08:39 PM
Senator Rochford introduces SB 647, explaining it establishes a state-sponsored prescription drug discount program focused on transparency and accountability. He notes no cost to the state or patients, immediate savings at the pharmacy, and privacy protections unlike commercial cards. He mentions funding through manufacturer rebates and defers to experts for details.
SB647
Support05:17:29.197 - 3:14:55 PM
Sam provides an overview of the ArrayRx program, a multi-state public pharmacy collaborative offering discounted prescription drugs with no cost to states or members. Highlights include up to 80% savings, privacy protections, stable pharmacy reimbursements, and revenue generation for states via administrative fees. Addresses Insurance Department's concerns, stating no resources needed to join, and offers New Futures' support for promotion through grants and community partners.
SB647
Information Only05:22:14.177 - 3:19:40 PM
Stephanie explains ArrayRx implementation in Connecticut with no marketing budget, relying on community partners for promotion. Notes easy operationalization, availability to all residents regardless of insurance, and addresses questions on how it works outside insurance, mail-order options, and administrative fees. Emphasizes benefits for high-deductible plans and gaps in coverage. Discusses varying state placements and funding through point-of-sale fees that support the program without additional state costs.
SB647
Information Only05:33:57.310 - 3:31:23 PM
Commissioner Betancourt clarifies SB 647 as enabling legislation granting the department authority to explore state-sponsored discount programs. States no opposition to this narrow scope, separates policy debate on need from implementation resources, and notes further stakeholder discussions would clarify costs and manpower if pursued.
SB647
Support05:38:58.106 - 3:36:24 PM
Anne shares firsthand experiences as a nurse on prescription affordability struggles, citing data that over half of Granite Staters worry about costs and one in four skip or cut doses. Supports SB 647 for providing free discounts to all residents, protecting data privacy, and enabling healthier lives without dangerous choices between medications and essentials.
SB647
Support05:41:26.001 - 3:38:52 PM
Dan supports SB 647, highlighting cost benefits outweighing any administrative FTE, free access for all, privacy protections, and simplicity. Notes prescription drugs' rising healthcare costs (22% of premiums) and potential to save at the counter and bend the cost curve overall.
SB647
Support05:46:56.562 - 3:44:22 PM
Donald Crease, a state employee and father of a 24-year-old daughter with cystic fibrosis, testified in favor of SB 647. He shared that his daughter's prescription drugs cost $340,007.63 over the past 12 months through the state employee plan, with Trikafta alone exceeding $300,000 annually. He expressed concern for his daughter's future coverage after aging out of his plan and highlighted the need for safety nets like Array Rx for uninsured or underinsured families. Crease praised Array Rx for respecting privacy, supporting rural pharmacies, generating state revenue, and serving as a trusted agent for consumers amid high drug costs. He urged the committee to support the bill as a small but necessary step.