Michael Smith Director | NFIB Wyoming
Michael Smith Director | NFIB Wyoming
The Wyoming state director for the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) has voiced disappointment over Governor Mark Gordon's decision to remove key components from Senate File 23-151. The bill was designed to provide transparency on how pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) price prescription drugs.
Tony Gagliardi, Wyoming state director for NFIB, expressed his views stating, "It would have been nice to see the governor stand up to the pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) lobby." He added that the bill could have stabilized the pharmacy industry in Wyoming but accused the governor of siding with PBM lobbyists. According to Gagliardi, this action allowed PBMs to continue their opaque pricing practices.
The conduct of PBMs has also attracted attention at a national level. Casper pharmacist Eric Saul discussed these issues in a guest editorial on the NFIB Wyoming webpage. Saul highlighted concerns about rebates and kickbacks that increase drug costs and insurance premiums. He pointed out that many patients are unaware of the powerful role PBMs play between them and drug companies. Saul noted that these practices are particularly challenging in rural states like Wyoming.
A special survey conducted by NFIB in August 2022 revealed that 67% of Wyoming small-business owners favored requiring PBMs to disclose their pricing methods. Additionally, on their 2023 State Ballot, NFIB members overwhelmingly supported allowing every Wyomingite the right to choose their pharmacy.
Gagliardi further commented on the legislative process, noting that "SF 151 passed comfortably at each stage of its committee journey in both chambers," making Governor Gordon's decision more disappointing.
NFIB has been advocating for small and independent business owners across America for 80 years. The organization remains committed to addressing healthcare costs, which have been a top concern for small businesses for over three decades.
For more information about NFIB's activities in Wyoming, visit nfib.com/WY or follow them on Twitter @NFIB_WY.
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