Federal judge blocks Arkansas law barring pharmacy benefit managers from owning pharmacies in state

Little Rock, Ark. (AP)-A federal judge was temporarily blocked at the beginning of the first law of Arkansas on Monday it would prohibit Pharmacy, managers from having pharmacies in the state.

The US Regional Judge Brian Miller decided to take a preliminary measure against the laws that restrict the prospective benefit managers, which carry out the scope of prescription drugs for large customers including health insurers and employers providing coverage.

Republican Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders signed the restriction to the law earlier this year and will enter into force on August 5th.

“It seems to be clearly discriminating against the plaintiffs,” Miller, except for the plaintiffs and has no other way to advance the interests of the state. ”

Republican Chief Public Prosecutor Tim Griff said he respected the court’s decision and plans to appeal.

The supporters of the Arkansas laws said that it is necessary because pharmacy benefits forces independent pharmacies to close independent pharmacies, especially in rural areas. Express scenarios in CVs and their cases, said that if the restriction is allowed to enter into force, it will have destructive effects on consumers.

CVS, which calls Sanders to veto the legislation, said that if the law enters into force, he should close 23 retail pharmacy in the state. The company said he was satisfied with the decision.

“We continue to focus on serving people in Arkansas and we want to work with the state actively to reduce pharmacies and provide access to pharmacies, CV said CVS said in a statement.

Arkansas is among a few states that deputies strive to regulate the pharmacy benefit managers.