Salt Lake City, UT, October 9, 2026 — Utah lawmakers are evaluating potential legislation that would prohibit pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) from owning pharmacies. The proposed ban is being considered as a measure intended to address and potentially lower prescription drug costs for consumers.

However, the efficacy and legality of such a ban are being met with skepticism. An opinion piece highlights several concerns regarding this strategy, suggesting it may not be the most effective solution to the complex issue of drug pricing.

The article points to significant constitutional challenges that have arisen in other states attempting similar measures. Specifically, it references legal hurdles encountered by comparable laws enacted in Arkansas and Tennessee. These challenges raise questions about the viability of Utah’s proposed ban and could lead to protracted legal battles.

Furthermore, the opinion piece raises concerns about potential unintended consequences for vulnerable populations. The integration of PBMs into pharmacy ownership could lead to disruptions in the services these groups rely on, impacting access to necessary medications and care.

The discussion also occurs within the context of broader regulatory efforts. The article notes that federal initiatives are already underway, aimed at increasing oversight and regulation of PBMs. This suggests that changes to PBM operations may come through federal action rather than state-specific bans on pharmacy ownership.

The specific details of the proposed Utah legislation, including the exact timeline for consideration and potential effective dates, were not provided. The names of the lawmakers sponsoring or opposing the bill were also not detailed in the summary. The outcome of these considerations and the ultimate decision by Utah lawmakers remain pending.


Story summarized from the original created by John Swallow on www.deseret.com, see more information here.

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