Tennessee lawmakers have taken decisive action to protect access to affordable medications for vulnerable residents by passing House Bill 1242, a measure that reinforces the integrity of the 340B Drug Pricing Program and pushes back against interference from powerful pharmaceutical companies.
The 340B program, established at the federal level, allows select hospitals and healthcare providers—such as St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital and Erlanger Baroness Hospital—to purchase outpatient drugs at reduced prices, ultimately helping lower-income patients afford essential medications. HB1242 ensures that Tennesseans who depend on this safety net won’t be left behind due to bureaucratic meddling or corporate greed.
“Despite achieving record-high profits in recent years, pharmaceutical and insurance companies have begun pulling back support for the safety net providers that many Americans rely on,” said Rep. Esther Helton-Haynes, Chair of the House Insurance Subcommittee. “This legislation protects these providers in the Volunteer State and helps ensure residents continue to have access to quality health care and essential medications.”
In recent years, drug manufacturers have tried to impose restrictive requirements on 340B providers, undermining the spirit of the program. HB1242 puts a stop to these tactics by prohibiting manufacturers from imposing demands not also placed on non-340B entities. Importantly, it grants the Tennessee Attorney General’s Office the authority to enforce compliance and hold manufacturers accountable.
The legislation now heads to Governor Bill Lee’s desk. If signed, it will take effect July 1, serving as another example of Tennessee’s commitment to standing up for its citizens and defending the principles of affordable health care access and local control against federal overreach and corporate pressure.
