MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Pharmacists across Alabama will stage a walkout on Tuesday, Feb. 25 at 1:00 p.m., advocating for Senate Bill 93, also known as the Patient Access Bill. Sponsored by Sen. Andrew Jones, the bill is attempting to reform Pharmacy Benefit Manager practices and ensure fair reimbursement for pharmacies.
According to the Alabama Pharmacy Association, over 100 pharmacies statewide will participate in various ways. Some will close entirely for the afternoon, while others will shut down for a few hours, dim lights to spark patient conversations, or close their front doors while keeping drive-thru windows open.
“We have over 100 pharmacies in all areas of Alabama that are participating in some way,” said Alabama Pharmacy Association Chief Executive Officer Louise Jones. “Pharmacists are naturally servant-hearted people, so closing goes against the grain of their personalities, but this is a necessary and very visible way to advocate for patient access and pharmacy survival with SB93 at the Statehouse.”
Following the walkout, many pharmacists will gather at the Statehouse in Montgomery to push for SB93’s passage. The legislation targets Pharmacy Benefit Manager policies that impact medication pricing, patient costs, and pharmacy reimbursement. Advocates argue that current policies contribute to rising prescription drug costs and force independent pharmacies to close due to financial strain.
Jared Johnson of Marble City Pharmacy in Sylacauga confirmed to SylacaugaNews.com that the pharmacy will not participate in the walkout, although he is in favor of Senate Bill 93. No other pharmacies in the area confirmed or denied their involvement.
The Alabama Pharmacy Association, a nonprofit representing over 3,000 members, continues to lobby for legislative changes that support pharmacists and patient access to affordable medications.
