Rep. Gundrum Votes for Prescription Drug Affordability, Protection, and Transparency

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                  

February 18, 2020

Contact: Rep. Gundrum  

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Madison, WI – During the Assembly floor session earlier today, Rep. Rick Gundrum (R-Slinger) voted in favor of legislation to increase prescription drug transparency and affordability. Assembly Bill 114 (AB 114) reforms the prescription drug middleman commonly known as Pharmacy Benefit Managers, or PBMs.

This bill provides certainty to pharmacies in their ongoing dealings with PBMs. AB 114 requires that PBMs be licensed through the Wisconsin Office Commissioner of Insurance (OCI) to increase transparency with necessary accountability standards.

“When this legislation was circulated for co-sponsorship, I enthusiastically added my name in support,” said Rep. Gundrum. “One of the basic mandates I have as a public servant is to serve and protect the residents of the 58^th Assembly District. AB 114 protects both consumers and local pharmacies. This bill eliminates the use of “gag clauses” in state law that prevents pharmacists from informing patients about less expensive medications available. I was elated today when this bill passed the Assembly unanimously!”

Under AB 114, consumers must be notified 60 days before a medication will no longer be available. This will prevent a lapse in treatment and create adequate time to fulfill any necessary grievance process before losing access to a prescribed medication.

“As this bill is now headed to the Senate, I am hopeful that it will be passed and signed into law soon.”