Discount drug program bill clears final round

Senators passed a bill April 3 meant to protect certain hospitals and other health care facilities in Nebraska that purchase drugs at discount prices through a federal program.

LB168, as introduced by Sen. Brian Hardin of Gering, prohibits drug manufacturers from directly or indirectly denying, restricting or prohibiting acquisition of a 340B Community Benefits Program drug by any location that is authorized to receive it.

Unless required by federal law, the bill also prohibits any manufacturer, agent or affiliate from requiring any data submission as a condition for allowing the acquisition of a 340B drug.

The Nebraska attorney general or any county attorney may institute action on behalf of the state to prevent violations of the bill’s provisions.

LB168 passed on a vote of 42-5 and takes effect immediately.