VIRGINIA BEACH, VA — Senator Aaron Rouse today celebrated a major legislative victory with the passage and signing into law of the “Save Local Pharmacies Act”, SB 875, a landmark bipartisan effort aimed at protecting Virginia’s independent pharmacies from unfair reimbursement practices and ensuring communities have continued access to essential healthcare services.
“Today is a win for every Virginian who relies on their neighborhood pharmacy for trusted, accessible care,” said Senator Rouse. “This legislation ensures that local pharmacies can continue to serve as a critical piece of our healthcare system, especially in rural and underserved areas.”
The bill, which passed with strong bipartisan support, was the product of months of collaboration across party lines. Senator Rouse expressed deep appreciation for the leadership of Delegate Katrina Callsen, Senator Travis Hackworth, and Delegate Terry Kilgore and Delegate Otto Wachsmann whose support helped drive the bill to the Governor’s desk.
“I’m proud to have led this charge, but I’m even prouder of the coalition we built to get it done,” Rouse said. “Working with this Delegate Katrina Callsen, Senator Travis Hackworth, and Delegate Terry Kilgore and Delegate Otto Wachsmannshowed that when we put people over politics, we can achieve real, lasting change.”
The “Save Local Pharmacies Act” addresses longstanding concerns about the role of pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), introduces greater transparency into drug pricing, and ensures fair reimbursement rates for independent pharmacies, many of which are struggling to stay afloat.
Governor Glenn Youngkin signed the bill into law today, marking a significant milestone for local healthcare access and bipartisan policymaking.
Senator Rouse concluded, “This is how our government should work: Democrats and Republicans coming together to protect our communities. I thank Governor Youngkin for signing this bill into law and every stakeholder from pharmacists, patients, and legislators, who stood with us to make it happen.”
For press inquiries, contact Ryan Jackson at mailto:[email protected] or 757.632.1465.
