Asm. Phil Ramos

Relates to establishing the "340B prescription drug anti-discrimination act"; prohibits pharmaceutical manufacturers and pharmacy benefit managers from discriminating against covered entities and New York state pharmacies based on participation in the drug discount program authorized by section 340B of the federal public health service act.

Creates statewide emergency and crisis response council to work in conjunction with the commissioners of mental health and addiction services to jointly approve emergency and crisis services plans submitted by local governments, and provide supports regarding the operation and financing of high-quality emergency and crisis services provided to persons experiencing a mental health, alcohol use, or substance use crisis.

Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) - companies that manage prescription drug coverage for insurers - from owning, operating, or controlling pharmacies directly or indirectly. It applies to all entities (including corporations and associations) currently violating this rule, requiring them to sell their pharmacy holdings within three years. The law defines "pharmacy benefit manager" using an existing public health law definition. This creates a clear separation between PBMs and pharmacies, aiming to prevent conflicts of interest in drug pricing and patient care.

Prohibits immigration enforcement in school settings; prohibits all public and charter schools from allowing law enforcement officials inside school property to access a student, except to address an imminent safety situation or if they have an appropriate judicial warrant or judicial order.

Enacts the pro-banking act to mandate acceptance of the New York city identity card as a primary form of identification at all covered entities, including all banking organizations, foreign banking corporations, and interstate branches.

Establishes the office of black male excellence to analyze and provide recommendations regarding issues relating to black males including education, criminal justice, health, mental health, economic opportunity, employment, fatherhood, mentorship, violence, public safety, and quality of life.

Relates to decreasing the length of the suspension period applicable to certain individuals who lose their jobs due to a labor dispute, such as a strike, and who seek to obtain unemployment insurance benefits; decreases the suspension period from two consecutive weeks to one week; provides that the waiting period and suspension period shall be served concurrently.

Provides that each electric corporation shall establish a unique priority phone number that shall remain in operation every day of the year for customers who have documented their need for essential electricity for medical needs; makes related provisions.

Relates to the regional cost index for purposes of the calculation of total foundation aid; updates the regional cost index to better reflect the differences in cost of living across the state.

Establishes the "earned time act" providing for time allowances against the term or maximum term of sentences imposed by the court to be credited on an annual pro rata basis.