With Alabama’s 2016 regular session set to begin on Tuesday, February 2nd, I thought I might give a little preview of what we might expect or not expect. How ironic that tomorrow is Groundhog Day since not much has changed from when the Legislature adjourned its second Special Session of 2015. The 2016 Regular Sessions consists of 30 Legislative Days within a 105-day calendar period.

The General Fund, despite a handful of changes last year, remains in trouble. The Education Budget, though in better shape, has plenty of unaddressed needs and a looming shortfall in the Teachers Insurance Program. Medicaid needs significant funding increases to the tune of $157 million – and that is to stay at level funding. Also, Medicaid needs around $60 million of the $157 million requested for Regional Care Organizations (RCOs). I did not know that when the Legislature created the RCOs that funding was required.

If the problems are the same, the solutions seem to be as well. With the Legislature’s unwillingness to address the revenue issue (except for our increased provider tax last session), state agencies – already amputated by years of reductions – may see further cuts.

APCI Legislative staff will be at the Capitol every day, fighting to ensure that Independent Pharmacy’s voice is heard loud and clear and remembering that your voice needs to heard the loudest. So when APCI sends out a CALL for ACTION, please do what you have done in the past; pick up that telephone or send an email to make that CONTACT because it does work! It has worked in the past and APCI will continue the fight to protect your small businesses so that you can continue to serve your patients and community.

APCI plans to support legislation addressing several PBM issues that have been major hurdles to you providing excellent care and service to your patients and community. Also, APCI Legislative Staff will be reviewing all legislation to determine the positive or negative effects on your ability to serve your patients and community.

Stay tuned!