An Arm and a Leg: Wait, What’s a PBM?
By Dan Weissmann
Pharmacy benefit managers, or PBMs, are companies that negotiate the prices of prescription drugs. Hear about their role in raising drug prices and the ongoing efforts to regulate this complex industry.
Daily Edition for Wednesday, July 12, 2023
State Vows To Improve Heat Warnings: As California braces for its most intense and prolonged heat wave of the year, state officials are investing in new methods to warn residents of the dangers of soaring temperatures. On Tuesday, California launched the $20 million “Heat Ready CA” campaign to improve outreach, advertising, and communication efforts. Read more from the Los Angeles Times. Keep scrolling for more environmental health news.
Groups Sue to Overturn Idaho ‘Abortion Trafficking’ Law Targeting Teens
By Sarah Varney
It is illegal to help a minor obtain an abortion in Idaho or leave the state for one without parental consent. The lawsuit says the ban infringes on the right to interstate travel and First Amendment freedoms.
Daily Edition for Tuesday, July 11, 2023
LA Mayor Steps Up Homelessness Emergency: Nearly seven months after Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass declared a homelessness emergency, the mayor on Monday signed an updated emergency declaration that allows her administration to award contracts to builders, vendors, or service providers to deal with the crisis faster than before. Read more from the Los Angeles Daily News.
As Nonprofit Hospitals Reap Big Tax Breaks, States Scrutinize Their Required Charity Spending
By Andy Miller and Markian Hawryluk
Nonprofit hospitals avoid paying taxes if they provide community benefits such as charity care. More states are examining that trade-off, scrutinizing the extent of hospitals’ spending on their communities.
Daily Edition for Monday, July 10, 2023
Excessive Heat Comes To California: In addition to warning people to stay hydrated and avoid overexposure to the heat, the National Weather Service is urging Californians to “Look before you lock!” to avoid trapping children, the elderly, or pets in a hot car. Read more from the Los Angeles Times and San Francisco Chronicle.
Proposed PFAS Rule Would Cost Companies Estimated $1B; Lacks Limits and Cleanup Requirement
By Michael Scaturro
A proposed Environmental Protection Agency rule calls for companies to disclose PFAS manufactured or imported since 2011. The chemical industry is upset because such compliance would cost an estimated $1 billion, while environmental health advocates worry because the rule wouldn’t ban the chemicals outright.
Meet the People Deciding How to Spend $50 Billion in Opioid Settlement Cash
By Aneri Pattani
As settlement dollars land at the state level, state councils wield significant power in determining how the windfall gets spent. And, though they will likely include the most knowledgeable voices on addiction, these panels also face concerns about conflicts of interest and other issues.
What You Need to Know About the Drug Price Fight in Those TV Ads
By Arthur Allen
At least nine bills introduced in Congress take aim at pharmacy benefit managers, the powerful middlemen that channel prescription drugs to patients.
