With Congress Stalled, States are Tackling Rising Rx Costs on their Own

States are stepping up to help lower the cost of prescription drugs for everyday people. In 2025, at least 31 states passed nearly 70 laws aimed at making medications more affordable.

With federal action moving slowly, Stateline news reports that lawmakers in state capitols nationwide are focusing on parts the system can control. Many of the new laws target pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), the middlemen who negotiate drug prices among drug companies, insurers and pharmacies. Nearly two-thirds of the new laws zero in on PBM practices.

Some states, including Oregon and Washington, have gone even further by setting up “drug affordability review boards.” These groups can investigate steep price hikes and, in some cases, set upper payment limits to keep prices in check.

Supporters say these reforms could help people pay less at the pharmacy and slow rising health-plan premiums. Critics warn that the changes could strain small pharmacies or limit investment in new treatments.

For people in Oregon, Washington, Idaho and Utah, these changes may soon shape how much you pay for your prescriptions.

Are you struggling with high prescription drug costs? If you live in Oregon, managers of the state’s Drug Price Transparency Program want to hear from you before an annual meeting in early December. Voices for Affordable Health makes it easy for you to submit comments using this link.

No matter where you live, you are always invited to share your health affordability story with Voices for Affordable Health.