SCRIPT Act

PassedAmy Galey (R)Senate2025–2026 Session

AI Generated

Plain English Summary

The SCRIPT Act is comprehensive pharmacy legislation with multiple parts that regulate pharmacy benefits managers (PBMs), require transparency in drug pricing and rebates, establish pharmacy of choice protections, create licensing requirements for pharmacy service organizations, strengthen pharmacy audit protections, and require consumers receive benefits from prescription drug rebates. The law takes effect gradually between October 2025 and January 2027.

Arguments in Favor

Supporters argue this bill protects independent pharmacies from unfair PBM practices by requiring fair reimbursement, limiting audits, and preventing discrimination in pricing. It increases transparency for consumers and payers by requiring reporting of rebates, spread pricing, and drug price increases. It also ensures patients can choose their preferred pharmacy and potentially pay less through rebate pass-through provisions, addressing concerns that PBMs have profited from rebates while keeping drug costs high for consumers.

Arguments Against

Opponents contend the bill creates significant regulatory burdens and compliance costs for PBMs, insurers, and healthcare plans that may ultimately increase premiums for consumers. They argue restrictions on reimbursement rates and audit practices could limit PBM cost-containment tools and negotiating power with drug manufacturers. Some worry transparency requirements may not meaningfully reduce drug prices if rebates were already being partially passed through, and that mandatory licensing and reporting could disadvantage smaller organizations unable to absorb administrative costs.

AI-generated analysis based on bill text. Always verify with official sources at ncleg.gov. This is not legal or political advice.