HR 1794: Commissioner of Insurance; conduct a comprehensive review of prescription drug pricing and identify strategies to reduce the cost of prescription medications; urge

House Resolution 1794

By: Representatives Berry of the 56th, Herring of the 145th, Park of the 107th, Frye of the 122nd, Hugley of the 141st, and others

A RESOLUTION

Urging the Commissioner of Insurance to conduct a comprehensive review of prescription drug pricing and identify strategies to reduce the cost of prescription medications for citizens of the State of Georgia; and for other purposes.

WHEREAS, the cost of prescription drugs has increased significantly in recent years, placing a substantial financial burden on patients, families, employers, and public health programs across the State of Georgia; and

WHEREAS, high prescription drug prices can lead to decreased medication adherence, resulting in worsened health outcomes and increased long-term healthcare costs; and

WHEREAS, greater transparency of pharmaceutical pricing, including the roles of manufacturers, pharmacy benefits managers, insurers, and other stakeholders, is necessary to fully understand cost drivers within the pharmaceutical supply chain; and

WHEREAS, other states have undertaken comprehensive reviews of prescription drug affordability, including the use of all-payer claims data, advisory panels, and reporting requirements to better understand pricing trends and identify policy solutions; and

WHEREAS, a coordinated, evidence based review in Georgia would help identify opportunities to improve affordability, enhance transparency, and ensure that cost savings are passed on to consumers; and

WHEREAS, the Office of the Commissioner of Insurance is uniquely positioned to evaluate insurance market practices, claims data, and pricing structures affecting prescription drug costs in Georgia.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that the members of this body urge the Commissioner of Insurance to conduct a comprehensive review of prescription drug pricing and identify strategies to reduce the cost of prescription medications for citizens of the State of Georgia.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a report of findings and recommendations be submitted to the Governor, the President of the Senate, and the Speaker of the House of Representatives.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized and directed to make appropriate copies of this resolution available for distribution to the Commissioner of Insurance, the public, and the press.