SE Illinois News

State Senator Dale Fowler of Harrisburg has commented on the signing of House Bill 1697, a new law aimed at addressing the influence and practices of pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs). The legislation is intended to bring transparency and accountability to PBMs, which have been operating with little oversight.

Senator Fowler stated, "Today was a victory for the independent pharmacies that are the backbone of so many communities across Southern Illinois. I was proud to serve as a chief co-sponsor of HB 1697 and fight to bring long-overdue transparency and accountability to Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs)."

He highlighted the challenges faced by family-owned pharmacies due to PBMs' operations. "For too long, PBMs have operated without oversight, putting family-owned pharmacies at a disadvantage and putting access to healthcare at risk. In 2024 alone, more than 85 independent pharmacies in Illinois were forced to close. We needed to act to help give independent pharmacies a fighting chance to survive," he said.

Fowler emphasized that HB 1697 is crucial for restoring fairness in the pharmacy system. He added, "HB 1697 is a critical step toward restoring fairness in the pharmacy system, and I’ll continue fighting to protect the providers who serve our communities every day."