On March 26th, Maryland’s Committee on Economic Matters held a hearing on Senate Bill 306, which directs the Workers’ Compensation Commission (WCC) to set prescription drug rates based on an acquisition cost index.

A recent amendment to the bill requires the Prescription Drug Affordability Board (PDAB) to study prescription drug costs before the WCC establishes a benchmark and allows insurers to negotiate at different rates.

Bill sponsor Senator Beidle defended the measure, emphasizing the PDAB study’s role in providing pricing insights. However, both supporters and opponents questioned whether legislating a fee guide based on acquisition cost is the best approach. Commissioner Quinn from the WCC reviewed past efforts to establish a fee guide, noting the need to prevent market disruptions and access issues.

With the April 7th legislative adjournment approaching, the Committee took no action on SB 306.