A1821

Bans health insurance carriers from favoring opioid over nonopioid prescription drugs for acute pain.

Prohibits health insurance carriers from denying coverage of nonopioid prescription drugs in favor of opioid prescription drugs. It also prevents carriers from requiring patients to try an opioid before a nonopioid is approved. The bill applies to health insurance carriers, including companies and organizations authorized to issue health benefits plans. The provisions also extend to Medicaid and contracts negotiated by the State Health Benefits Commission and the School Employees’ Health Benefits Commission. The law takes effect on January 1, 2026.