A bill for an act relating to pharmacy benefits managers, pharmacies, and prescription drugs and including applicability provisions.(See HF 852.)

Iowa House Study Bill 99 (HSB99) was introduced in January 2025 to regulate the practices of pharmacy benefits managers (PBMs), pharmacies, and prescription drug pricing. The bill aimed to establish guidelines for PBMs, ensure transparency in drug pricing, and protect consumers from potential overpricing. Key provisions included defining "pass-through pricing," where payments from third-party payors to PBMs match those made by PBMs to dispensing pharmacies, including any professional dispensing fees. The bill also sought to address the relationship between PBMs and pharmacies, aiming to create a more equitable and transparent system for prescription drug distribution. ([legiscan.com](https://legiscan.com/IA/text/HSB99/id/3087848?utm_source=openai))

While specific media coverage on HSB99 is limited, the bill's focus on transparency and consumer protection in prescription drug pricing aligns with ongoing national discussions about healthcare affordability. Advocacy groups and policymakers have generally supported such initiatives, viewing them as steps toward reducing drug costs and increasing market fairness. The bill's emphasis on pass-through pricing could be seen as a positive move toward ensuring that savings are passed directly to consumers.

Conversely, some industry stakeholders, particularly PBMs and certain pharmacy groups, might view the bill's provisions as restrictive. They could argue that stringent regulations may limit their operational flexibility and impact their profitability. Concerns might also be raised about the potential for increased administrative burdens and the feasibility of implementing pass-through pricing models. However, specific negative media reactions to HSB99 are not readily available.