SECTION 1. Notwithstanding any general or special law to the contrary, there shall be a commission to study the implementation of preferred pharmacy networks, whereby health insurers steer consumers to lower cost “preferred” pharmacies where insurers can negotiate lower drug prices.

SECTION 2. The commission shall consist of the house and senate chairs of the joint committee on health care financing, who shall serve as the co-chairs; one member to be appointed by the speaker of the house of representatives; one member to be appointed by the president of the senate; one member to be appointed by the house minority leader; one member to be appointed by the senate minority leader; the director of the health policy commission or a designee; the commissioner of the department of public health or a designee; and the executive director of the center for health information and analysis or a designee.

SECTION 3. The commission shall study the feasibility of implementing preferred pharmacy networks, and make recommendations based on a cost-benefit analysis of such networks. The commission shall provide estimates of projected savings in prescription drug costs from implementing such networks.

SECTION 4. The commission shall submit its report and findings, along with any recommendations and drafted legislation, to the house and senate committees on ways and means, the joint committee on health care financing, and the clerks of the house of representatives and senate within 12 months of the passage of this act.