essential drugs; price increases; limits

HB 2757 restricts unjustified price increases for "essential off-patent or generic drugs" in Arizona, directly affecting drug manufacturers and distributors. It prohibits "price gouging" (defined as excessive increases not tied to production costs or public health needs) and requires the state medical assistance program to notify the Attorney General about significant price hikes (e.g., 50%+ within a year or costs exceeding $80 for a standard supply). The Attorney General can then demand cost explanations from manufacturers and pursue enforcement actions, including court orders, refunds, or civil penalties up to $10,000 per violation. The law targets drugs with limited competition where price jumps leave patients with no affordable alternatives, focusing on protecting Medicaid patients and consumers.