Federal Judge Stalls Arkansas Law Protecting Independent Pharmacies Against Big Pharmacy Benefit Managers

In a concerning development for state sovereignty and the future of local pharmacies, a federal judge has put a temporary stop to Arkansas’ pioneering law designed to prevent large pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) from owning pharmacies in the state. This decision threatens the ability of states to protect their citizens from predatory corporate practices that hurt independent businesses and rural communities. Why does this matter to America’s heartland? Arkansas became the first state in the nation to pass legislation restricting PBMs—powerful intermediaries controlling prescription drug plans for insurers and employers—from owning pharmacies. This measure was championed by Republican Gov. Sarah...