Current Legislation
Understanding SB 41: The Risks to Affordable Medications
Senate Bill 41 (SB 41), introduced by Senator Wiener, proposes new regulations on how employers, unions, and other plan sponsors in California provide quality, equitable pharmacy benefits to their employees and members.
Key Concerns with SB 41:
Increased Prescription Costs:
Value-based arrangements allow PBMs to negotiate with drug manufacturers to ensure employers and patients have access to the lowest possible costs for prescription drugs. SB 41 would eliminate this important tool leaving patients and employers to face higher prices at the pharmacy counter.
No Accountability for Drug Manufacturers:
SB 41 targets the pharmacy benefits employers, unions, and other plan sponsors provide, while leaving pharmaceutical companies—who are responsible for setting the initial high prices of drugs—largely unaddressed. This narrow approach risks shifting blame without addressing the root cause of rising medication costs.
Why CAPA Opposes SB 41
CAPA strongly believes that addressing prescription drug affordability requires a comprehensive approach that holds all players in the healthcare system accountable. While SB 41 targets the pharmacy benefits employers, unions, and other plan sponsors provide, the legislation does not address the source of high drug prices – Big Pharma – and therefore risks increasing consumer costs and reducing access for Californians. CAPA supports policies that promote transparency and affordability without creating unnecessary burdens or driving up healthcare costs.
For more detailed information about SB 41, you can access the full text of the bill here. Let’s work together to ensure California adopts effective solutions that truly benefit patients and families.