Democratic Congress Could Reshape Drug Pricing, 340B, Medicaid Oversight
Becker's Hospital Review outlines six ways Democratic control of Congress, beginning Jan. 3, could affect pharmacy policy, while Republicans retain control until then and President Trump keeps veto power. Democrats would gain committee agenda-setting, subpoena and hearing powers to scrutinize drugmakers' pricing agreements, 340B rebate pilots and PBM practices; Sen. Ron Wyden is positioned to lead Senate Finance and Sen. Bernie Sanders is expected to chair the HELP committee. House Democrats' agenda reportedly includes restoring enhanced ACA subsidies and reversing nearly $1 trillion in Medicaid cuts, though both face veto risk. The piece also notes FDA's prescription drug user-fee authority expires in September 2027, creating a legislative vehicle for other drug policy provisions.