Lawmakers to raise pharmacy choice bill

HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) - Connecticut lawmakers are taking a look at legislation to expand pharmacy options for state employees.

The Labor and Public Employees Committee is expected to raise the bill for consideration Tuesday afternoon.

Last year, State Employees Bargaining Agent Coalition leadership signed an agreement with Gov. Dannel P. Malloy's administration that requires long-term prescriptions to be filled at CVS pharmacies or through mail order. Other pharmacies can participate in the Maintenance Drug Network to fill daily state employee prescriptions; however, they must be able to match CVS Caremark rates.

Since the deal took effect in October, local and independent pharmacies have voiced concerns over losing business.

On Friday, State Republicans announced their legislative priorities, which include eliminating the SEBAC mail order requirement.