In a late-session move that could have big implications for covered entities, Maine lawmakers passed L.D. 1018 on June 16, just days before the legislature adjourned. The bill, now passed by Governor Janet Mills, prohibits drug manufacturers from restricting contract pharmacy access for 340B entities, and adds a new layer of reporting requirements for hospitals starting in 2026.  This is a two-year budget bill (L.D. 1018).

This one stands out for its detailed approach to data reporting and reimbursement protections.

What the Bill Does

L.D. 1018, also known as the Protect Health Care for Rural and Underserved Communities Act, includes several key provisions:

• Protects 340B Contract Pharmacy Access: Manufacturers would no longer be able to block or limit delivery of 340B drugs to contract pharmacies or demand claims-level data unless federally required.
• Prevents Discriminatory Reimbursement: PBMs and insurers cannot reimburse 340B entities at lower rates, impose special fees, or require 340B modifiers on claims unless federally mandated. They also cannot exclude 340B entities from networks simply because they dispense 340B drugs.
• Requires New Reporting from Hospitals: Beginning July 1, 2026, 340B hospitals must submit an annual report to the Maine Health Data Organization, detailing acquisition costs, reimbursements by payer type, and payments made to contract pharmacies and 340B vendors. Hospitals must also report data on their 50 most frequently dispensed drugs, including physician-administered medications and outpatient child sites.

These reports will be made public and shared with state oversight agencies, adding more visibility into how 340B savings are used across the state.

Why It Matters

This bill follows a growing national trend of state legislatures pairing contract pharmacy protections with greater transparency requirements. In just the past year, states like Colorado, Vermont, and Hawaii have taken similar steps—recognizing the value of the 340B program while also pushing for clearer data on how it’s used.

How Covered Entities Can Prepare

The new law is part of a broader shift we’re seeing nationwide. As states take more active roles in shaping 340B policy, the burden often falls on covered entities to stay current, stay compliant, and stay transparent.

At RxTrail, we work with hospitals and clinics to make sure they’re audit-ready and fully aligned with state and federal expectations. That includes building structured reporting systems, standardizing payer-level data, and supporting contract pharmacy operations from a compliance standpoint.

If you’re in Maine or following similar legislation in your state, now is the time to get ahead of these changes.

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