Tennessee House Bill HB2332

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/2/26
• Refer: 2/5/26

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8, Chapter 27; Title 56, Chapter 7 and Title 71, Chapter 5, relative to pharmacy benefits managers.

Impact

The passing of HB2332 is expected to significantly impact the pharmacy sector within Tennessee by providing a legal framework that secures fair reimbursements from PBMs. The bill introduces essential regulations that require PBMs to establish a transparent process for pharmacies to appeal reimbursement decisions. In instances where the reimbursements fail to meet the stipulated amounts, PBMs are subjected to penalties, including the requirement to pay double the owed amount. This legislative measure aims to address disparities in drug pricing and promote more equitable practices in pharmacy reimbursements.

Summary

House Bill 2332 aims to regulate the actions of pharmacy benefits managers (PBMs) in Tennessee by establishing minimum reimbursement rates for contracted pharmacies. The bill mandates that PBMs cannot reimburse pharmacies for prescriptions lower than either the pharmacy's actual cost, a percentage of the national average drug acquisition cost, or the wholesale acquisition cost. This legislation seeks to ensure that pharmacies can sustain their operations while accurately billing for the services they provide, potentially alleviating some financial pressures they face.

Contention

While supporters argue that the bill ultimately benefits pharmacies and patients by ensuring better access to medications and fairer billing practices, there are concerns over how this might affect PBMs' operational structures and cost management strategies. Stakeholders in the pharmaceutical distribution system have raised alarms about potential increases in costs passed down from pharmacies to consumers as a reaction to the legislative changes. This tension reveals an ongoing debate about the balance between safeguarding healthcare providers and regulating the pharmaceutical supply chain.