States Target PBMs to Cut Drug Costs

States are cracking down on pharmacy benefit managers—companies that control prescription drug pricing and reimbursements—to slash costs for patients. Laws across at least a dozen states now limit PBM payments, mandate minimum pharmacist fees, and demand transparency, with Tennessee’s ban on PBM-owned pharmacies set to take effect in 2028. Big PBMs like CVS argue they’re lowering prices and pushing generics, likening criticism to blaming umbrellas for rain, while independent pharmacists say they’re being crushed by low reimbursements. CVS is spending millions on ads and lawsuits to block these laws, but pharmacists like Lisa Gales in Kansas see minimum fee mandates as a victory—even if they don’t fully cover costs. The debate centers on making meds affordable and preserving local pharmacies, with some calling for federal action as Congress moves on PBM regulations. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/cf3c30f5b8ee0ab5