New Virginia Legislation May Limit Access To Drugs In Commonwealth, May Impact Border Communities in North Carolina

Last month, the Virginia Senate passed S271, which would implement the Biden-era prescription drug policy on the state level. Independent pharmacists warn that the legislation may lead to shortages of basic medications in the Commonwealth of Virginia, which means that Virginians may cross into North Carolina to fill their prescriptions. The Virginia House of Delegates is debating the bill today, and it may soon head to Governor Spanberger’s desk for her approval or veto.  

On the federal level, these rules have led to reduced access to medications through Medicare. A recent survey of independent pharmacist found that 86% said that this type of program led to common medications becoming unavailable. Which means that if this law is enacted, thousands of Virginians may be forced to travel to border communities in North Carolina, further straining the Tar Heel state’s medical system in rural communities along the Virginia border.  

During the campaign, Governor Spanberger promised “And come January, my administration will be focused on lowering healthcare and prescription drug costs, expanding access to affordable, quality healthcare for Virginians, and making the Commonwealth more affordable for every family.” But if she signs this bill, Virginians will have less access to prescription drugs.  

Political insiders believe that this legislation is being pushed on behalf of large “health” insurance companies, notably United Healthcare. They are funneling massive support to lobbying groups like AARP to push this legislation. Notably, public records reveal that United Healthcare gave $85,000 to Spanberger’s Inaugural Committee.