PBM Reform: A Big Win in Big Sky Country!

Published: May 9, 2025

Governor Gianforte Signs Major PBM Reform Bill – A Big Win for Montana’s Independent Pharmacies

Helena, MT – Independent Pharmacy Cooperative (IPC) is pleased to announce that Montana Governor Greg Gianforte has officially signed House Bill 740 (To revise laws relating to pharmacies, pharmacy benefit managers), marking a significant victory for independent community pharmacies across Montana.

What This Means for Montana Pharmacies:

This critical legislation strengthens protections for local pharmacies against unfair Pharmacy Benefit Manager (PBM) practices, ensuring fairer reimbursement rates and greater transparency in prescription drug pricing by:

Ensuring Fair Reimbursement: Establishing safeguards to end below-cost reimbursement rates setting a reimbursement floor of NADAC +$15 for independent community pharmacies.
Curbing PBM Overreach: Preventing PBMs from imposing harmful contract terms that jeopardize patient access and pharmacy sustainability.
Promoting Transparency: Requiring clearer PBM practices so pharmacies can better serve their patients and communities.

This hard-fought victory would not have been possible without the tireless advocacy of Montana’s independent pharmacists, who engaged in various campaigns, legislative testimony, and direct outreach to lawmakers. Thank you to every pharmacy professional who raised their voice to champion this critical reform.

Thank you to all Montana Legislators who voted to pass this legislation, and a special thank you to Representative Marta Bertoglio the primary sponsor of House Bill 740. If you would like to tell Representative Bertoglio thank you, you can send a message using the link below: www.votervoice.net/IPCRX/Campaigns/126270/Respond

Next Steps for Implementation:

With HB 740, the Montana Board of Pharmacy and state regulators will work to enforce these new provisions. IPC will continue to provide updates and resources to ensure pharmacies understand their rights and can hold PBMs accountable under the strengthened regulations.

A National Movement for PBM Reform:

Montana’s success is part of a broader effort to rein in PBM abuses nationwide. IPC is actively supporting similar reforms in multiple states while pushing for comprehensive PBM reform at the federal level, including provisions in the upcoming federal budget reconciliation legislation. Together, we are building momentum to protect independent pharmacies and the patients who rely on them.

Make Your Voice Heard on Federal PBM Reform
www.votervoice.net/IPCRX/Campaigns/124325/Respond