New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A04604

Introduced
2/4/25  
Refer
2/4/25  

Caption

Creates a wholesale prescription drug importation program which complies with federal standards and regulations for the purpose of generating substantial savings for consumers.

Summary

Bill A04604 proposes the establishment of a wholesale prescription drug importation program in New York, allowing the importation of prescription drugs from Canada. The program aims to provide substantial savings for consumers while ensuring compliance with federal safety and effectiveness standards. The bill outlines the roles of various state agencies, including the Department of Health and the Department of Education, in overseeing the program and ensuring that only approved wholesalers participate in the importation process.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would amend the public health law and the education law in New York, creating a framework for the wholesale importation of prescription drugs. It would establish regulations for approved wholesalers, including compliance with federal tracking and tracing requirements, and would allow for the imposition of fees to support the program's operation. This could potentially lead to lower drug prices for consumers in New York, while also ensuring that safety standards are met.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding Bill A04604 appears to be supportive among its sponsors, who emphasize the potential cost savings for consumers. However, there may be concerns regarding the safety and efficacy of imported drugs, as well as the regulatory burden on wholesalers. The lack of voting history and committee discussion transcripts makes it difficult to gauge broader legislative sentiment at this time.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise from stakeholders concerned about the safety of imported drugs and the implications for local pharmaceutical businesses. Some legislators may worry about the potential for reduced oversight or the impact on the pharmaceutical supply chain. Additionally, there could be differing opinions on the feasibility of implementing such a program within the existing regulatory framework.

Companion Bills

NY S00371

Same As Creates a wholesale prescription drug importation program which complies with federal standards and regulations for the purpose of generating substantial savings for consumers.

Previously Filed As

NY S00604

Creates a wholesale prescription drug importation program which complies with federal standards and regulations for the purpose of generating substantial savings for consumers.

NY S00371

Creates a wholesale prescription drug importation program which complies with federal standards and regulations for the purpose of generating substantial savings for consumers.

RI S0467

Establishes the Wholesale Prescription Drug Importation Program for the importation of wholesale prescription drugs from Canada, to provide savings to Rhode Island consumers.

RI H5853

Establishes the Wholesale Prescription Drug Importation Program for the importation of wholesale prescription drugs from Canada, to provide savings to Rhode Island consumers.

RI S2387

Establishes the Wholesale Prescription Drug Importation Program for the importation of wholesale prescription drugs from Canada, to provide savings to Rhode Island consumers.

WV HB2827

Relating to wholesale importation of prescription drugs

WV HB5144

Relating to wholesale importation of prescription drugs

GA SB314

"Wholesale Prescription Drug Importation Act"; enact

TX HB1319

Relating to wholesale importation of prescription drugs in this state.

MS SB2715

Pharmaceuticals; authorize the Division of Medicaid to establish a wholesale prescription drug importation program.

Similar Bills

FL S0262

Storage and Disposal of Prescription Drugs and Sharps

FL H0283

Storage and Disposal of Prescription Drugs and Sharps

FL HB283

Storage and Disposal of Prescription Drugs and Sharps:

NJ A2771

Permits import of prescription drugs from certain countries.

IL HB1272

PRESCRIPTION DRUG IMPORT ACT

IL SB1971

PRESCRIPTION DRUG IMPORT ACT

MS SB2715

Pharmaceuticals; authorize the Division of Medicaid to establish a wholesale prescription drug importation program.

IL SB3896

WHOLESALE DRUG DISTRIBUTORS