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Moore backs proposal to let Maryland board move faster on drug-price limits
A bill expected in January would let Maryland’s Prescription Drug Affordability Board align prices for 23 medications with Medicare-negotiated maximums. Supporters say the change could ease costs for patients; the pharmaceutical industry says lawmakers should focus on insurers and pharmacy benefit managers.
BALTIMORE — Gov. Wes Moore and health care advocates are backing legislation that would expand Maryland’s authority to limit prescription drug costs, with a bill expected to be introduced in January.
The proposal would let the state’s Prescription Drug Affordability Board set limits by matching the maximum fair prices negotiated by Medicare. It would cover 23 medications used to treat conditions including asthma, diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease and some cancers, and is intended to let the board act more quickly.
The board has already matched federal prices for drugs including Jardiance and Ozempic, according to the proposal’s supporters. An analysis is also underway to estimate potential savings for patients; the announcement described that review as covering 25 drugs, a different figure from the 23 medications identified for the bill.
Moore endorsed the measure alongside state Sen. Don Gile and Del. Jennifer White Holland, who are sponsoring the legislation. He said he supports the bill and looks forward to signing it if lawmakers approve it.
Advocacy groups, including Maryland Health Care for All and Empowerment for Collective Change, said the proposal could make essential medicines more affordable. Advocate Erica Miller said patients cannot benefit from prescriptions they cannot afford.
The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America, an industry trade group, questioned the approach. In a statement, it urged Maryland policymakers to address out-of-pocket costs tied to insurers and pharmacy benefit managers, and said any solutions should preserve access to care.
The proposal still must be introduced and approved by the Maryland General Assembly before it can become law. Its potential savings for patients have not yet been determined.