Virginia passed NABIP's model Rx language. We can do it again.

We can do this. We have done this. We will do this again.

In 2025, language from NABIP’s Prescription Drug Transparency Model Act became law in Virginia. Unanimous votes in both houses. Signed by the governor. Our first model bill enacted.

That’s the proof of concept. Now we scale it.

I joined David Saltzman on The Benefits Brief this week to lay out the Legislative Council’s three priorities for the year: get our model legislation introduced in the states, use our voice for the profession and consumers, and respond fast when state and local issues surface with no warning. (New Jersey and Colorado members know exactly what I mean.)

The model bills are ready. The CREDIT Act gives people credit on their plan for smart cash-pay decisions. Think of the patient who fills an $8,000 prescription for $1,000 cash and gets zero credit toward their deductible in 48 states. The ELARA Act gives employers the right to their own claims data, because they’re paying a big invoice every month without knowing what they’re buying.

And the timing matters. Congress is home for August recess, with every House seat and a third of the Senate on the ballot in November. Your representative has an office in your district and time on their calendar. The talking points are on NABIP.org. Sending them takes about two minutes.

Healthcare policy gets decided by the people who show up. Our members know how this market actually works because we live in it every day.

Thanks to David A Saltzman for a great conversation. Link to the episode, August Talking Points and more in the comments.