2026 Legislative Updates

April 28, 2026

Lawmakers concluded their business on Thursday, April 23 in the second session of the 114th General Assembly. The legislature delivered results this year by prioritizing conservative policies and fulfilling the General Assembly’s constitutional duty of approving a balanced budget.

TPA Priorities: PBM Reform

SB 2040 (Harshbarger)/HB 1959 (Scarbrough) – Last Monday, the Senate passed SB 2040 by a vote of 24-9. An amendment was presented and accepted to extend the implementation date by six months to July 1, 2028. Last Tuesday, the House passed HB 1959 by a vote of 86-7. Once the legislation is formally presented to the Governor, he has ten calendar days (excluding Sundays) to sign or veto the bill; otherwise, it will become law without his signature.

Last week, TPA submitted a letter to the Governor, which was co-signed by 16 additional pharmacy organizations, urging him to sign SB 2040/HB 1959 into law. In addition, TPA helped coordinate a meeting between the CEO of Walgreens and the Governor to showcase further urgency and support of the legislation.

Thank you to all TPA members that reached out to their legislators this session! TPA encourages you to follow-up and send thank you notes for their support this year!

Miscellaneous Bills:

SB 2323 (Haile)/HB 2101 (Faison) – This bill removes some restrictions to over-the-counter pseudoephedrine sales, including the requirement for pharmacist counseling before the sale of such products. SB 2323/HB 2101 was transmitted to the Governor for signature on April 16, and was signed by the Governor on April 27. This law will take effect on July 1, 2026.

SB 2556 (Reeves)/HB 2136 (Terry) – This bill reduced administrative barriers to provide for faster access to FDA-approved, evidence-based treatment options given the schedule it is provide upon approval. HB 2136 passed the House on April 16 with a 91-0 vote, and SB 2556 passed the Senate on April 21 with a 32-0 vote. The bill currently awaits signature by the Governor.

TPA is planning to host an Insight Into Advocacy CE webinar on Wednesday, May 20 to offer a complete recap and overview the 2026 legislative session. Watch TPA communications for registration details.

April 21, 2026

TPA Priorities: PBM Reform

SB 2040 (Harshbarger)/HB 1959 (Scarbrough) – Last Wednesday, following House approval of the state budget, HB 1959 advanced through the House Finance, Ways and Means process, passing the Subcommittee by a unanimous 11-0 vote on April 15, and subsequently clearing the full Committee by a unanimous 24-0 vote later that same day.

SB 2040 passed the Senate Finance Committee (9-2) on March 24. SB 2040 was taken up by the full Senate on April 20, passing on a 24-9 vote. On April 21, the House voted and passed HB 1959 on a 86-7 vote. During the Senate floor consideration, the bill sponsor offered an amendment extending the implementation date to July 1, 2028, which was adopted.

SB 2040/HB 1959 now heads to the Governor’s desk for signature. TPA will submit a letter of support to the Governor, co-signed by multiple pharmacy stakeholders.

Miscellaneous Bills:

SB 2323 (Haile)/HB 2101 (Faison) – This bill aims to remove some restrictions to over-the-counter pseudoephedrine sales, including the requirement for pharmacist counseling before the sale of such products. After passing the Senate and House, SB 2323/HB 2101 awaits the Governor’s signature. If the bill becomes law, it becomes effective July 1, 2026.

SB 907 (Haile)/HB 797 (Hicks, G.) – This bill aims to exempt specialty pharmacies from the business tax on the sale of prescriptions that exceed the Medicare Part D specialty cost threshold. HB 767 was taken off notice in the House Finance, Ways and Mean Subcommittee on April 15, therefore, the bill will not proceed this legislative session.

Review this week’s legislative bill tracker, listing additional bills that TPA is following that are set to be heard in various committees this week.

April 14, 2026

TPA Priorities: PBM Reform

SB 2040 (Harshbarger)/HB 1959 (Scarbrough) – Last week, testimony was heard on HB 1959 in the House Finance, Ways and Means Subcommittee. An amendment was presented and promptly withdrawn to exempt pharmacies located in mental health clinics. The bill was put behind the budget and will not be voted on until the House approves the state budget. SB 2040 passed the Senate Finance Committee (9-2) on March 24. Both versions of this bill are anticipated to be voted on early next week. TPA encourages you to review and share the PBM Ownership of Pharmacies leave-behind flyer with your legislators today!

Miscellaneous Bills:

SB 2323 (Haile)/HB 2101 (Faison) – This bill aims to remove some restrictions to over-the-counter pseudoephedrine sales, including the requirement for pharmacist counseling before the sale of such products. SB 2323 passed the Senate (29-0) on April 9. As HB 2101 passed the House (94-0) on April 6, this bill moves to the Governor for signature.

SB 907 (Haile)/HB 797 (Hicks, G.) – This bill aims to exempt specialty pharmacies from the business tax on the sale of prescriptions that exceed the Medicare Part D specialty cost threshold. A coalition of specialty pharmacies has provided an amendment to lower the fiscal note on the bill. SB 2323/HB 2102 will be voted on very soon once the Senate and House approve the budget this week. TPA is supportive.

SB 420 (Reeves)/HB 870 (Rudder) – This bill ensures all copay assistance counts toward a patient’s cost-sharing, and also prevents the creation of similar schemes that would limit access to care in the future. SB 420 was assigned to General Subcommittee by Senate Commerce and Labor on April 7, and therefore will not move forward this session.

SB 604 (Bailey)/HB 614 (Travis) – This bill aims to add restrictions on pharmacy services administrative organizations (PSAO) and prevent direct wholesaler and pharmacy relationships with PSAOs. SB 604 was assigned to General Subcommittee by Senate Commerce and Labor Committee on April 7, and therefore, will not move forward this session.

Review this week’s legislative bill tracker, listing additional bills that TPA is following that are set to be heard in various committees this week.

April 7, 2026

TPA Priorities: PBM Reform

SB 2040 (Harshbarger)/HB 1959 (Scarbrough) – Last week, HB 1959 was rolled additional week by the House Finance, Ways and Means Subcommittee due to a request by legislative leadership. TPA expects the bill to be reviewed by House Finance, Ways, and Means Subcommittee on Wednesday, April 8. SB 2040 passed the Senate Finance Committee (9-2) on March 24. It is anticipated for a full Senate floor vote in the next 1-2 weeks, likely after a vote is made on the budget. TPA encourages you to review and share the PBM Ownership of Pharmacies leave-behind flyer with your legislators today!

TPA has created this patient leaflet/bag stuffer to engage additional grassroots advocacy. The patient leaflet can include your pharmacy’s logo as well as add your local legislator’s names. Before handing out to any patients, be sure to obtain patient permission to share information about bills that can impact your practice.

Miscellaneous Bills:

SB 2323 (Haile)/HB 2101 (Faison) – This bill aims to remove some restrictions to over-the-counter pseudoephedrine sales, including the requirement for pharmacist counseling before the sale of such products. SB 2323 passed Senate Judiciary Committee (8-0) on March 23. HB 2101 passed House Judiciary Committee (20-0) on March 25 and House Health Committee (19-0) on March 31. It is expected to be heard on the House floor on Monday, April 6, and the Senate within 1-2 weeks. TPA is monitoring.

SB 907 (Haile)/HB 797 (Hicks, G.) – This bill aims to exempt specialty pharmacies from the business tax on the sale of prescriptions that exceed the Medicare Part D specialty cost threshold. A coalition of specialty pharmacies has provided an amendment to lower the fiscal note on the bill. SB 2323/HB 2102 will be voted on once the Senate and House approve the budget. TPA is supportive.

SB 420 (Reeves)/HB 870 (Rudder) – This bill ensures all copay assistance counts toward a patient’s cost-sharing, and also prevents the creation of similar schemes that would limit access to care in the future. TPA expects SB 420 to be reviewed by Senate Commerce and Labor on Tuesday, April 7. TPA is monitoring.

SB 604 (Bailey)/HB 614 (Travis) – This bill aims to add restrictions on pharmacy services administrative organizations (PSAO) and prevent direct wholesaler and pharmacy relationships with PSAOs. SB 604 was deferred on March 17 by Senate Commerce and Labor Committee, and expected to be heard on Tuesday, April 7. The House companion, HB 614, is not likely to move forward as the Insurance Subcommittee is no longer planned to meet this session. TPA is monitoring.

SB 2186 (Stevens)/HB 2170 (Travis) – This bill aims to add annual registration on pharmacy services administrative organizations (PSAO) in the state and require disclosure of their fees, services, and contract terms with certain entities. SB 2186 was deferred by Senate Commerce and Labor Committee on March 17, to be heard on Tuesday, April 7. HB 2170 is passed House Insurance Subcommittee (5-1) on March 25, but the House Insurance Committee re-referred the bill back to the Subcommittee. This bill is defeated as the House Insurance Subcommittee is no longer expected to meet this session. TPA is monitoring.

Review this week’s legislative bill tracker, listing additional bills that TPA is following that are set to be heard in various committees this week.

March 31, 2026

TPA Priorities: PBM Reform

SB 2040 (Harshbarger)/HB 1959 (Scarbrough) – Last week, HB 1959 was rolled one week by the House Finance, Ways and Means Subcommittee due to a request by legislative leadership. TPA expects the bill to be reviewed by House Finance, Ways, and Means Subcommittee on Wednesday, April 1. SB 2040 passed the Senate Finance Committee (9-2) on March 24. It is anticipated for a full Senate floor vote on Thursday, April 2. TPA encourages you to review and share the PBM Ownership of Pharmacies leave-behind flyer with your legislators today!

TPA Position: Scope Expansion & Standard of Care

SB 2242 (Johnson) /HB 2557 (Lamberth) – On Wednesday, HB 2557 was withdrawn in the House Health Subcommittee after strong opposition from Rep. Terry and the Tennessee Medical Association that created an unfavorable vote count on the committee. While SB 2242 passed the Senate Health and Welfare Committee and was planned for a Senate floor vote this week, it was pulled from the calendar as the House version couldn’t move forward. TPA will work with the new administration in 2027 to consider similar policy next year.

Miscellaneous Bills:

SB 2323 (Haile)/HB 2101 (Faison) – This bill aims to remove some restrictions to over-the-counter pseudoephedrine sales, including the requirement for pharmacist counseling before the sale of such products. SB 2323 passed Senate Judiciary Committee (8-0) on March 23. It is expected to be heard on the Senate floor next week. HB 2101 passed House Judiciary Committee (20-0) on March 25. It is expected to be heard by House Health Committee on Tuesday, March 31. TPA is monitoring.

SB 2186 (Stevens)/HB 2170 (Travis) – This bill aims to add annual registration on pharmacy services administrative organizations (PSAO) in the state and require disclosure of their fees, services, and contract terms with certain entities. SB 2186 was deferred by Senate Commerce and Labor Committee on March 17. HB 2170 is passed House Insurance Subcommittee (5-1) on March 25. It is expected to be heard by House Insurance Committee on Tuesday, March 31. TPA is monitoring.

Review this week’s legislative bill tracker, listing additional bills that TPA is following that are set to be heard in various committees this week.

March 24, 2026

TPA Priorities: PBM Reform

SB 2040 (Harshbarger)/HB 1959 (Scarbrough) – HB 1959 passed the House Insurance Committee (16-3) on March 10 and passed the House Government Operations Committee (11-0-1) on March 16. It will be reviewed next by House Finance, Ways, and Means Subcommittee on Wednesday, March 25. SB 2040 will be heard by Senate Finance, Ways, and Means Committee on Tuesday, March 24. Last week, the Senate Finance Committee heard from state officials and the state’s fiscal review team to review any potential fiscal impact to TennCare and the state. As we move closer to a floor vote in the House and Senate, TPA encourages you to review and share the PBM Ownership of Pharmacies leave-behind flyer with your legislators today!

TPA Position: Scope Expansion & Standard of Care

SB 2242 (Johnson) /HB 2557 (Lamberth) – SB 2242 passed the Senate Health and Welfare Committee (8-1). It is anticipated for a full Senate floor vote on Thursday, March 26. HB 2557 has been placed on the calendar for House Health Subcommittee for Wednesday, March 25. This legislation represents a significant scope of practice expansion and establishes a standard of care framework all as part of the Governor’s Rural Health Transformation Program. Review and share the Governor’s Scope/Standard of Care leave-behind flyer with your legislators today!

Miscellaneous Bills:

SB 420 (Reeves)/HB 870 (Rudder) – This bill requires all copay assistance to count toward a patient’s cost-sharing and prevents the creation of new tools in the future that could seek to divert patient assistance funding. SB 420 was deferred on March 10, and it is expected to be heard by Senate Commerce and Labor Committee next week. HB 870 passed Insurance Committee in 2025. TPA is monitoring.

SB 2323 (Haile)/HB 2101 (Faison) – This bill aims to remove some restrictions to over-the-counter pseudoephedrine sales, including the requirement for pharmacist counseling before the sale of such products. SB 2323 is expected to be heard by the Senate Judiciary Committee on Monday, March 23. HB 2101 passed with an amendment by the Criminal Justice Subcommittee (8-0) on March 18, and is expected to be heard by House Judiciary Committee on Monday, March 23. TPA is monitoring.

Review this week’s legislative bill tracker, listing additional bills that TPA is following that are set to be heard in various committees this week.

March 17, 2026

TPA Priorities: PBM Reform

SB 2040 (Harshbarger)/HB 1959 (Scarbrough) – HB 1959 passed the House Insurance Committee (16-3) on March 10 and passed the House Government Operations Committee (11-0-1) on March 16. It will be reviewed next by House Finance, Ways, and Means Subcommittee. SB 2040 will be heard by Senate Finance, Ways, and Means Committee today/Tuesday, March 17. An amendment has been provided to this bill to address concerns from veterans and key pharmacy stakeholders to ensure the intent of the bill is met. As we move closer to a floor vote in the House and Senate, TPA encourages you to review and share the PBM Ownership of Pharmacies leave-behind flyer with your legislators today!

SB 1796 (Reeves)/HB 1955 (Helton-Haynes) –Action on SB 1796 was deferred by Senate Commerce and Labor Committee on Tuesday, March 10. After review by leadership and strong opposition by Committee members, TPA expects this bill to be moved to review over the summer. Given the lack of support in this Committee, there is not a viable path in moving the bill forward in the House.

TPA Position: Scope Expansion & Standard of Care

SB 2242 (Johnson) /HB 2557 (Lamberth) – SB 2242 has been placed on the calendar for Senate Health and Welfare Committee for today/Tuesday, March 17. If not heard today, TPA expects committee review on Wednesday, March 18. HB 2557 has been placed on the calendar for House Health Subcommittee for Wednesday, March 18. At this time, amendment language has still not been fully released. TPA is working with legislative leadership to ensure this bill enhances the role of the pharmacist while aligning with the needs of the Governor’s Rural Health Transformation Program. Review and share the Governor’s Scope/Standard of Care leave-behind flyer with your legislators today!

TPA Position: Access to Vaccines

Miscellaneous Bills:

SB 2323 (Haile)/HB 2101 (Faison) – This bill aims to remove some restrictions to over the counter pseudoephedrine sales, including removing state level quantity limits and the requirement for pharmacist counseling before the sale of such products. SB 2323 is expected to be heard by the Senate Judiciary Committee on Tuesday, March 17. HB 2101 is expected to be heard by House Criminal Justice Subcommittee on Wednesday, March 18. TPA is monitoring.

SB 604 (Bailey)/HB 614 (Travis) – This bill aims to add restrictions on pharmacy services administrative organizations (PSAO) and prevent direct wholesaler and pharmacy relationships with PSAOs. SB 604 was deferred on March 10, and it is expected to be heard by Senate Commerce and Labor Committee today/Tuesday, March 17. TPA is monitoring.

SB 2186 (Stevens)/HB 2170 (Travis) – This bill aims to add annual registration on pharmacy services administrative organizations (PSAO) in the state and require disclosure of their fees, services, and contract terms with certain entities. SB 2186 is expected to be heard by Senate Commerce and Labor Committee today/Tuesday, March 17. HB 2170 is expected to be heard by House Insurance Subcommittee on Wednesday, March 18. TPA is monitoring.

Review this week’s legislative bill tracker, listing additional bills that TPA is following that are set to be heard in various committees this week.

March 10, 2026

TPA Priorities: PBM Reform

SB 2040 (Harshbarger)/HB 1959 (Scarbrough) – HB 1959 passed the House Insurance Subcommittee (5-2) on March 4, and now will be heard by House Insurance Committee today/Tuesday, March 10. SB 2040 passed the Senate Health Committee (8-1) on February 25, and is expected to be heard by Senate Finance, Ways, and Means Committee on Tuesday, March 17. An amendment has been provided to this bill to address concerns from veterans and key pharmacy stakeholders to ensure the intent of the bill is met. TPA offered supporting testimony on HB 1959. Review and share the PBM Ownership of Pharmacies leave-behind flyer with your legislators today!

SB 1796 (Reeves)/HB 1955 (Helton-Haynes) – SB 1796 is expected to be heard by Senate Commerce and Labor Committee today/Tuesday, March 10. After review by leadership and strong opposition by Committee members, TPA expects this bill to be moved to review over the summer. Given the lack of support in this Committee, there is not a viable path in moving the bill forward in the House.

TPA Position: Scope Expansion & Standard of Care

SB 2242 (Johnson) /HB 2557 (Lamberth) – While HB 2557 has been placed on the calendar for House Health Subcommittee for Wednesday, March 11, there is still no release of the bill language from legislative leadership. TPA expects this bill to roll one week before being heard. TPA is monitoring this bill closely to ensure it enhances the role of the pharmacist while aligning with the needs of the Governor’s Rural Health Transformation Program. Review and share the Governor’s Scope/Standard of Care leave-behind flyer with your legislators today!

TPA Position: Access to Vaccines

SB 1767 (Bowling)/HB 1852 (Fritts) – This bill would prohibit the administration of any mRNA vaccine or other injectable solution that contains an mRNA vaccine by healthcare professionals to patients. HB 1852 is expected to be heard by the House Population Health Subcommittee today/Tuesday, March 10. TPA opposes this bill and sent out an Advocacy Alert to engage our grassroots. Review and share fact sheet on mRNA medicines from the Alliance for mRNA Medicines with your legislators today!

Miscellaneous Bills:

SB 420 (Reeves)/HB 870 (Rudder) – This bill requires all copay assistance to count toward a patient’s cost-sharing and prevents the creation of new tools in the future that could seek to divert patient assistance funding. SB 420 is expected to be heard by Senate Commerce and Labor Committee today/Tuesday, March 10. TPA is monitoring.

SB 2323 (Haile)/HB 2101 (Faison) – This bill aims to remove some restrictions to over the counter pseudoephedrine sales, including removing state level quantity limits and the requirement for pharmacist counseling before the sale of such products. HB 2101 is expected to be heard by House Criminal Justice Subcommittee on Wednesday, March 11. TPA is monitoring.

SB 2186 (Stevens)/HB 2170 (Travis) – This bill aims to add annual registration on pharmacy services administrative organizations (PSAO) in the state and require disclosure of their fees, services, and contract terms with certain entities. SB 2186 is expected to be heard by Senate Commerce and Labor Committee today/Tuesday, March 10. HB 2170 is expected to be heard by House Insurance Subcommittee on Wednesday, March 11. TPA is monitoring.

Review this week’s legislative bill tracker, listing additional bills that TPA is following that are set to be heard in various committees this week.

March 3, 2026

TPA Priorities: PBM Reform

SB 2040 (Harshbarger)/HB 1959 (Scarbrough) – SB 2040 passed the Senate Health Committee (8-1) passed SB 2040 (8-1) on February 25, and now will be heard by Senate Finance, Ways, and Means in the next 1-2 weeks. Several witnesses testified in support and against the bill. TPA offered supporting testimony on SB 2040. You may view the hearing here. HB 1959 will be heard by House Insurance Subcommittee tomorrow/Wednesday, March 4. Review and share the PBM Ownership of Pharmacies leave-behind flyer with your legislators today!

SB 1796 (Reeves)/HB 1955 (Helton-Haynes) – TPA has worked with bill sponsors to address additional PBM reforms in this bill. As the bill language has been formally released, TPA will be meeting with the opposition to review our concerns as we expect this bill to be heard by Senate Commerce Committee and House Insurance Subcommittee in the next few weeks. Review and share the PBM Reform Clean-up leave-behind flyer with your legislators today!

TPA Position: Scope Expansion & Standard of Care

SB 2242 (Johnson) /HB 2557 (Lamberth) – In recent conversations with the Governor’s Office, TPA offered feedback on questions on final bill language that the Governor’s team is evaluating to leverage our pharmacists’ education and expertise to improve health outcomes for Tennesseans. TPA is supportive of the Governor to utilize pharmacists as part of the Rural Health Transformation Program. TPA expects this bill to be heard in various Health Committees in the coming weeks. Review and share the Governor’s Scope/Standard of Care leave-behind flyer with your legislators today!

TPA is actively reviewing multiple bills as bill language was recently revealed for multiple caption bills that have been filed. Stay turned for additional updates and analysis from the TPA advocacy team.

Review this week’s legislative bill tracker, listing additional bills that TPA is following that are set to be heard in various committees this week.

February 24, 2026

TPA Priorities: PBM Reform

SB 2040 (Harshbarger)/HB 1959 (Scarbrough) – SB 2040 is scheduled to be heard on Wednesday, February 25 in Senate Health Committee at 1:00 PM CT. HB 1959 is expected to be reviewed by House Insurance Subcommittee in the next 1-2 weeks. This bill would prohibit pharmacy benefit managers from owning pharmacies by preventing the Board of Pharmacy from issuing a license to any applicant in which a PBM and Covered Entity holds an ownership stake. Review and share the PBM Ownership of Pharmacies leave-behind flyer with your legislators today!

TPA continues to work with stakeholders to address additional PBM reforms with SB 1796 (Reeves)/HB 1955 (Helton-Haynes). This bill is expected to be reviewed by Senate Commerce Committee and House Insurance Subcommittee in the next 1-2 weeks. Review and share the PBM Reform Clean-up leave-behind flyer with your legislators today!

TPA Position: Scope Expansion & Standard of Care

SB 2242 (Johnson) /HB 2557 (Lamberth) – TPA has been in recent communication with the Governor’s Office as they finalize bill language aimed at expanding opportunities for pharmacists to leverage our education and expertise to improve health outcomes for Tennesseans. As part of the Rural Health Transformation Program, this bill provides support for Tennessee’s ongoing evaluation by the federal government for its efforts to improve access to care. Review and share the Governor’s Scope/Standard of Care leave-behind flyer with your legislators today!

TPA strongly encourages all members to reach out to their elected officials and introduce themselves as a trusted resource on pharmacy and healthcare issues. Members who are unsure of their legislative representation are encouraged to use the legislator finder tool. Tomorrow is Pharmacy Day on the Hill! Whether you plan to join TPA in Nashville or not, TPA urges you to participate virtually and contact your legislators to support the issues impacting the profession.

Review this week’s legislative bill tracker, listing additional bills that TPA is following that are set to be heard in various committees this week.

February 17, 2026

TPA’s advocacy team continues to meet with key sponsors to review our strategy and amend talking points to build additional support for our legislative and regulatory goals for 2026. Review this week’s legislative bill tracker, listing bills that TPA is following that are set to be heard in various committees this week with a few notable bills dealing with immigration, AI/downcoding, and healthcare providers being able to ask about gun ownership.

TPA Priorities: PBM Reform – SB 2040 (Harshbarger)/HB 1959 (Scarbrough)

This legislation would prohibit pharmacy benefit managers from owning pharmacies by preventing the Board of Pharmacy from issuing a license to any applicant in which a PBM holds an ownership stake or beneficial interest. TPA has been working with the bill sponsors to provide amendatory language to meet the needs of additional stakeholders, which we expect to be available soon. Currently, there are 10 co-sponsors of the Senate bill, including 5 of the 9 members of the Senate Health committee. We anticipate multiple House co-sponsors coming on board next week.

TPA continues discussions with additional legislators who have expressed interest in pursuing further PBM reform in 2026. TPA has compiled this feedback and will utilize SB 1796 (Reeves)/HB 1955 (Helton-Haynes) as a vehicle to address these concerns. This week TPA met with additional legislative leadership to review the feedback received and move forward with this bill.

TPA Position: Scope Expansion & Standard of Care – SB 2242 (Johnson) /HB 2557 (Lamberth)

As part of the Rural Health Transformation Program, the Governor’s Office will be pursuing legislation aimed at expanding opportunities for pharmacists to leverage their education and expertise to improve health outcomes for Tennesseans. TPA continues to await bill language for this caption/placeholder bill, which will serve as the vehicle for this policy change.

Miscellaneous:

Lifting Pseudoephdrine Restrictions – SB 2323 (Haile)/HB 2101 (Faison)

TPA met with stakeholders to review the current language of this bill and offer support for various provisions that have placed an undue burden on pharmacists and their teams, yet still maintaining proper reporting to a national tracking database. TPA will monitor potential amendments to this bill.

Modernizing the Controlled Substance Act – SB 2556 (Reeves)/HB 2136 (Terry):

TPA met with stakeholders looking to update the state’s Controlled Substance Act with a goal to allow medications to immediately follow the initial federal scheduling by FDA and DEA, yet still ensure the state retains authority to reschedule as needed under authority of the Department of Mental Health & Substance Abuse Services. TPA will monitor progress of this bill.

TPA strongly encourages all members to reach out to their elected officials and introduce themselves as a trusted resource on pharmacy and healthcare issues. Members who are unsure of their legislative representation are encouraged to use the legislator finder tool. TPA’s Pharmacy Day on the Hill on February 25 also provides an excellent opportunity to engage directly with lawmakers and policy experts on issues impacting the profession.

Please continue to watch your inbox for TPA Advocacy Alerts, which will provide guidance on when and how to engage legislators on specific bills. These grassroots efforts remain critical to advancing TPA’s advocacy priorities.

February 10, 2026

TPA’s advocacy team continues to meet with key sponsors to review our strategy and amend talking points to build additional support for our legislative and regulatory goals for 2026. Bill numbers have been assigned to our priorities after last week’s amended bill filing deadline. Review this week’s legislative bill tracker, listing bills that TPA is following that are set to be heard in various committees this week.

TPA continues to monitor the state’s budget process, including upcoming committee hearings that are particularly relevant to pharmacy and healthcare policy. Key department budget hearings in Senate: Department of Commerce and Insurance – Tuesday, Feb. 10, TennCare and Health Finance Administration – Tuesday, Feb. 10 and Wednesday, Feb. 18, and Department of Health – Wednesday, March 11. Key department budget hearings in House: Department of Commerce and Insurance – Monday, Feb. 9, TennCare – Wednesday, Feb. 25, and Department of Health, Feb. 26.

TPA Priorities: PBM Reform – SB 2040 (Harshbarger)/HB 1959 (Scarbrough)

This legislation would prohibit pharmacy benefit managers from owning pharmacies by preventing the Board of Pharmacy from issuing a license to any applicant in which a PBM holds an ownership stake or beneficial interest. TPA has been working with the bill sponsors to provide amendatory language to meet the needs of additional stakeholders, which we expect to be available soon. At this time, there are already 11 co-sponsors of the Senate version of this bill, including 5 of the 9 members of the Senate Health committee. As an Advocacy Alert was sent last week to all members, while this week TPA is seeking targeted outreach by Representatives serving on the House Health and House Insurance Committees.

TPA continues discussions with legislators who have expressed interest in pursuing further PBM reform in 2026. TPA has compiled this feedback and will be looking to utilize SB 1796 (Reeves)/HB 1955 (Helton-Haynes) as a vehicle to address these concerns. This week TPA is meeting with additional legislative leadership to review the feedback received and move forward with this bill.

TPA Position: Scope Expansion & Standard of Care

As part of the Rural Health Transformation Program, the Governor’s Office will be pursuing legislation aimed at expanding opportunities for pharmacists to leverage their education and expertise to improve health outcomes for Tennesseans. While TPA has meetings this week with legislative leadership, we anticipate SB 2242 (Johnson) /HB 2557 (Lamberth), a caption/placeholder bill, to serve as the vehicle for this policy change.

TPA strongly encourages all members to reach out to their elected officials and introduce themselves as a trusted resource on pharmacy and healthcare issues. Members who are unsure of their legislative representation are encouraged to use the legislator finder tool. TPA’s Pharmacy Day on the Hill on February 25 also provides an excellent opportunity to engage directly with lawmakers and policy experts on issues impacting the profession.

February 3, 2026

Legislative activity slowed this week as the General Assembly remained closed due to winter snow and ice impacting much of the state. During this pause, TPA continued to engage virtually with key allies to advance our legislative priorities and strengthen support for additional pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) reform initiatives. PBM-related legislation has now been officially filed and is available for review on our legislative bill tracker.

Last night, the Governor delivered his State of the State address (a summary is available here), outlining his broad policy priorities for the year. Important to the profession, the Governor specified the importance of adopting policy for expanded scope of practice for pharmacists to align with the Rural Health Transformation Program. Today, the Governor’s proposed budget will be presented to the General Assembly. TPA will closely monitor the budget process, including upcoming committee hearings that are particularly relevant to pharmacy and healthcare policy. Key department budget hearings in Senate: Department of Commerce and Insurance – Tuesday, Feb. 10, TennCare and Health Finance Administration – Tuesday, Feb. 10 and Wednesday, Feb. 18, and Department of Health – Wednesday, March 11. Key department budget hearings in House: Department of Commerce and Insurance – Monday, Feb. 9, TennCare – Wednesday, Feb. 25, and Department of Health, Feb. 26.

TPA Priorities: PBM Reform – SB 2040 (Harshbarger)/HB 1959 (Scarbrough)

This legislation would prohibit pharmacy benefit managers from owning pharmacies by preventing the Board of Pharmacy from issuing a license to any applicant in which a PBM holds an ownership stake or beneficial interest. The policy mirrors Arkansas’ Act 624 of 2025, which established similar ownership restrictions. TPA continues to work closely with the bill sponsors and is actively encouraging additional legislators to join as co-sponsors. At this time, there are already 9 co-sponsors of this bill, including 5 of the 9 members of the Senate Health committee.

In addition, TPA has been in ongoing discussions with legislators who have expressed interest in pursuing further PBM reform in 2026. TPA is compiling this feedback to share with prior PBM reform champions in an effort to identify a collaborative path forward. SB 1796 (Reeves)/HB 1955 (Helton-Haynes) has been filed as a placeholder (caption) bill to serve as a vehicle for these discussions.

TPA Position: Scope Expansion

As part of the Rural Health Transformation Program, the Governor’s Office is expected to pursue legislation aimed at expanding opportunities for pharmacists to leverage their education and expertise to improve health outcomes for Tennesseans. TPA has remained engaged in discussions surrounding prior scope expansion efforts as the Administration finalizes proposed legislation. TPA anticipates the release of bill language in the coming week.

TPA strongly encourages all members to reach out to their elected officials and introduce themselves as a trusted resource on pharmacy and healthcare issues. Members who are unsure of their legislative representation are encouraged to use the legislator finder tool. TPA’s Pharmacy Day on the Hill on February 25 also provides an excellent opportunity to engage directly with lawmakers and policy experts on issues impacting the profession.

January 27, 2026

This past week, TPA met with bill sponsors and legislative leaders to review our key priorities, discussing ongoing strategy for legislative success this year. Due to the inclement weather, it was unclear whether bill filing deadlines were going to be adjusted. Therefore, legislators feverishly worked to file bills before the expected week off from the weather.

As previously noted, the Governor’s State of the State address is set for February 2 at 6 pm CST. The address can be found on Lee’s Facebook and YouTube channels and will be aired statewide. On Tuesday, Feb. 3, the Governor’s proposed budget will be presented to the Legislature. This is when we will have better detail of the priorities of the Administration. TPA will be watching closely on these additional dates regarding the budget as these agency and department hearings will help set the state’s budget direction as lawmakers weigh funding requests and priorities for the next fiscal year. Key department budget hearings in Senate: Department of Commerce and Insurance – Tuesday, Feb. 10, TennCare and Health Finance Administration – Tuesday, Feb. 10 and Wednesday, Feb. 18, and Department of Health – Wednesday, March 11. Key department budget hearings in House: Department of Commerce and Insurance – Monday, Feb. 9, TennCare – Wednesday, Feb. 25, and Department of Health, Feb. 26.

TPA Priorities: PBM Reform – SB 2040 (Harshbarger)/HB 1959 (Scarbrough)

This bill prohibits pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) from owning pharmacies by preventing the Board of Pharmacy from issuing a license to any applicant when a PBM holds an ownership stake or beneficial interest in that pharmacy. The policy aligns with Arkansas’ Act 624 of 2025, which established similar ownership restrictions.

TPA has also been in close communication with numerous legislators that want to further address PBM reform in 2026. TPA has been gathering this input to share with previous PBM reform champions to seek an avenue to address these concerns together. SB 1796 (Reeves)/HB 1955 (Helton-Haynes) has been filed as a place-holder/caption bill as a vehicle for this effort.

TPA Position: Tax Fairness with Specialty Medications – SB 907 (Haile)/HB 767 (Hicks, G.)

This bill aims to provide some relief by exempting from the TN business tax the sale of prescription drugs that exceed the Medicare Part D specialty cost threshold for the 2026 plan year, as determined by CMS. This bill moved successfully in 2025, but was put behind the budget due to a large fiscal note. TPA has been working with a coalition of specialty pharmacies to identify ways to reduce the fiscal note.

TPA Position: Scope Expansion

As part of the Rural Health Transformation Program, the Governor’s Office will be pursuing legislation to broaden opportunity for pharmacists to use their knowledge and skills to improve the health of Tennesseans. TPA has been in communication about previous efforts to adopt scope expansion as the Governor finalizes proposed legislation. TPA expects to see final bill language proposed in upcoming weeks.

We strongly encourage all our members to reach out to your elected officials and introduce yourself as a resource on pharmacy and healthcare issues. If you do not know who your legislators are, use the legislator finder tool. TPA’s Pharmacy Day on the Hill (February 25) is also a great opportunity to hear from legislators and experts on the issues impacting pharmacy. You, and your relationship with your legislators, are the profession’s most important advocacy asset.

Watch your inbox for Advocacy Alerts from TPA asking you to take part in a grassroots effort on particular legislation, telling you who to contact and what you need to say. These grassroots efforts are critical to our advocacy efforts.

January 20, 2026

The 2^nd session of the 114^th Tennessee General Assembly started last Tuesday as legislators returned to the Tennessee State Capitol in Nashville. TPA’s public affairs committee along with the Board of Directors has identified these legislative and regulatory priorities for 2026. This past week, TPA met with bill sponsors and legislative leaders to review our key priorities, discuss strategy for legislative success this year. In the coming weeks, TPA will share additional talking points and bill numbers so you can begin your conversations as our bills move through the process. Some notable dates include: January 30 at Noon as the bill filing deadline for the House; and February 2 as the Governor’s State of the State address.

This past week, TPA met with various stakeholder groups that are looking to build consensus on healthcare and pharmacy-related legislation. Such bills expected to be seen this year, include topics such as: regulating compounded products at IV fluid centers/medi-spas, removing limitations on use of pseudoephedrine, and prior authorization reform.

Also, this past Wednesday, a Joint Committee on Ways and Means held a hearing on the proposed federal aid acceptance on the Rural Health Transformation Program, of which the state is expected to receive $206,888,882 in year one of the federal grant. Representatives from the Governor’s Office, Department of Health, TennCare, and Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services addressed questions from the committee. While some policy considerations were debated, the committee voted to approve the funding to continue discussions with the Executive Branch.

January 13, 2026

The second session of the 114th Tennessee General Assembly begins today as legislators return to the Tennessee State Capitol in Nashville. 

This week also begins TPA’s focused legislative advocacy efforts at the capitol. TPA’s advocacy team of CEO Anthony Pudlo and contract lobbyist Garrett Johnson of Johnson Capitol Solutions will actively work with state policymakers to build consensus for our 2026 legislative and regulatory priorities and positions in hopes for a successful legislative session.

We strongly encourage all of our members to reach out to your elected officials and introduce yourself as a resource on pharmacy and healthcare issues. If you do not know who your legislators are, use the legislator finder tool. TPA’s Pharmacy Day on the Hill (February 25) is also a great opportunity to hear from legislators and experts on the issues impacting pharmacy. You, and your relationship with your legislators, are the profession’s most important advocacy asset. 

Each week throughout the session, TPA will provide updates through the 10 for Tenn e-newsletter as well as a bill tracker, listing all bills TPA is following on behalf of our members. As many bills haven’t yet been filed yet, we will have a bill tracker starting next week. This tracker will grow to 80-90 bills throughout the session.

In addition, watch your inbox for Advocacy Alerts from TPA asking you to take part in a grassroots effort on particular legislation, telling you who to contact and what you need to say. These grassroots efforts are critical to our advocacy efforts.

**As a reminder, TPA membership database now provides members an easier way to verify their state legislators. Be sure to log into the new database today to verify your home address is correct.

2026 Legislative Updates

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