Makes appropriation for the state pharmacy assistance program.

A BILL FOR AN ACT

SECTION 1. The legislature finds that the elderly and disabled individuals who are affected by the new medicare part D drug benefit program provided by the federal Medicare Modernization Act need assistance in defraying the cost of medically necessary prescriptions. Act 209, Session Laws of Hawaii 2005, established the state pharmacy assistance program. This program was originally to be funded by negotiated rebates from pharmaceutical companies. According to the department of health, this rebate plan is not a viable option. Funding needs to be appropriated from the general fund to the state pharmacy assistance program a special fund, established in §346-345.

The purpose of this Act is to make an appropriation for the state pharmacy assistance program.

SECTION 2. There is appropriated out of the general revenues of the State of Hawaii the sum of $          , or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2006-2007, to be deposited into the state pharmacy assistance program special fund.

The sum appropriated shall be expended by the department of human services for the purposes of this Act.

SECTION 3. This Act shall take effect on July 1, 2006.