COLUMBUS, Ohio (AVC News) — An Ohio lawmaker has introduced legislation aimed at protecting pharmacies that help patients understand prescription costs and navigate insurance requirements.
House Bill 972, sponsored by State Rep. Kellie Deeter (R-Norwalk), would prohibit pharmacy benefit managers, health insurers and other third-party administrators from penalizing pharmacies or pharmacists for offering services that improve prescription drug transparency and patient access.
The bill would protect pharmacies that provide services such as payment plans, medication adherence support, prior authorization assistance, information about out-of-pocket costs, lower-cost medication alternatives and lawful copay assistance.
Deeter’s office said the legislation was prompted by reports that some pharmacy benefit managers retaliated against independent pharmacies that partnered with digital pharmacy platforms designed to help patients lower prescription costs. Those actions allegedly included reducing pharmacy fees or removing pharmacies from insurance networks.
Supporters say the bill would help independent pharmacies compete with larger chains while giving patients more information about prescription costs and treatment options.
The proposal follows House Bill 229, a broader pharmacy benefit manager reform law signed by Gov. Mike DeWine earlier this year that increases transparency and oversight of the industry.
House Bill 972 was introduced July 1 and has not yet been assigned to a committee for consideration. Before becoming law, it must be approved by both the Ohio House and Senate and signed by the governor.
Last Updated on August 4, 2026 by AVC News
