Montgomery, AL – The Alliance of Alabama Healthcare Consumers (AAHC) has announced its opposition to Senate Bill 93 and Senate Bill 99, citing concerns over increased prescription costs for Alabama residents. The proposed legislation would impose an additional $10.64 dispensing fee on every prescription filled in the state, which AAHC estimates could cost individuals at least $900 annually and families up to $3,600 per year.
AAHC Executive Director Robin Stone voiced concerns about the financial impact of the proposed fee, arguing that it would not address rising drug costs but instead add a significant burden on consumers and employers.
“Imposing a permanent fee on every prescription filled in Alabama is not a solution to the problem of rising drug costs; the new $10.64 dispensing fee designated for pharmacy owners is a costly burden that will ultimately create more problems for consumers and employers,” Stone stated. “Both bills fail to address the exorbitant drug prices set by drug manufacturers. This approach ignores the real driving source of rising healthcare costs—skyrocketing drug prices from national manufacturers.”
Stone further warned that the fee, if enacted, would be passed down through the supply chain and ultimately paid by consumers, rather than by Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs).
The AAHC, a 501(c)(4) coalition advocating for healthcare consumers across Alabama, represents businesses, associations, public-sector entities, and non-profits. The organization focuses on policies affecting healthcare costs, accessibility, and employer-provided benefits.
Supporters of SB93 and SB99 argue that the fee would help independent pharmacies remain financially viable amid reimbursement challenges. However, opponents, including AAHC, contend that the legislation could lead to increased out-of-pocket expenses for Alabama residents.
As debate over the bills continues, AAHC has urged lawmakers to focus on policies that reduce prescription drug costs rather than implementing additional fees that could impact affordability for families and businesses.
