Legislation that seeks to address the unchecked influence and harmful practices of pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) was signed into law on July 1.

House Bill 1697 puts an end to spread pricing, prohibits PBMs from steering patients to their own preferred pharmacies, and requires that 100 percent of rebates go back to patients and plan sponsors where they belong.

According to the Illinois Pharmacists Association, 74 of Illinois’ 102 counties are now considered pharmacy deserts. Senate Republicans argue that entire regions are losing access to trusted, local care simply because PBMs are pushing independent pharmacies out of business. In 2024 alone, more than 85 independent pharmacies in Illinois were forced to close their doors.

Supporters believe the legislation will help hold the line on rapidly rising prescription prices, providing some much-needed relief to Illinoisans struggling to pay for medications.