Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee Chair Bill Cassidy, MD (R-La.) on Thursday unveiled discussion draft legislation, the 340B for Patients Act, which includes several concerning policies that would fundamentally reform and modify multiple aspects of the 340B Drug Pricing Program. This effort represents the culmination of Cassidy’s long-standing interest in the program, building upon a years-long investigation into the program and a recent hearing [refer to Washington Highlights, April 25, Oct. 24, 2025].
The discussion draft legislation includes several problematic proposals that would hinder and restrict hospitals’ participation in the program. Similar to the Trump administration’s 340B Rebate Model Pilot Program, the discussion draft would allow manufacturers to provide 340B savings in the form of an upfront discount or a retrospective rebate at their discretion [refer to Washington Highlights, April 24]. The proposal would also introduce new limits on covered entities’ use of contract pharmacy arrangements and child sites, as well as establish a new definition of a “340B patient.” Finally, to help address concerns about the lack of transparency in the program, the legislation would require 340B hospitals to submit additional data to the Department of Health and Human Services.
Comments on the proposal are due by Aug. 28.