TO AMEND THE PROHIBITION ON NONPROFIT, TAX EXEMPT, OR GOVERNMENTALLY FUNDED HOSPITALS FROM HOLDING A LICENSED PHARMACY PERMIT FOR THE SALE AT RETAIL OF DRUGS.

SB 86 modifies the rules for nonprofit, tax-exempt, or governmentally funded hospitals to hold retail pharmacy permits and introduces new regulations for pharmacy contracting. It would allow eligible hospitals, meeting criteria like a minimum inpatient census and providing emergency care, to hold one retail pharmacy permit at each licensed hospital location. These pharmacies must be located on or near the hospital campus and offer 24/7 access to emergency medications. The bill also prohibits pharmacies from entering contracts with parent entities that create anti-competitive advantages or limit patient choice, with enforcement by the Arkansas State Board of Pharmacy.