Episode 9: States’ 340B Battles, RFK Jr.'s Confirmation and Federal Uncertainty

In this episode of Inside 340B Report, Associate Editors Shannon Young and Will Newton and National Correspondent Bella Czajkowski break down the latest developments in the 340B program in statehouses and Washington, D.C. The team covers the intensifying fight over state-level 340B legislation and the reemergence of a controversial dark-money ad campaign, Health and Human Services Secretary nominee Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s contentious Senate confirmation hearings and the recent turmoil surrounding a now-rescinded federal funding freeze.

Key Topics Covered: 

State-Level 340B Legislative Surge
At least 11 states have already introduced 340B contract pharmacy protection bills in early 2025 after a record-setting level of state 340B legislative activity in 2024. With both advocates and opponents more prepared than ever, the legislative battle is heating up. Meanwhile, a shadowy group, Building America’s Future, is once again launching misleading ad campaigns against state 340B contract pharmacy access bills that attempt to link that legislation to illegal immigration and other hot-button political and social issues.

Senate Confirmations – RFK Jr.’s 340B Stance Still Unclear, Mehmet Oz Tied to Company That Focuses on 340B
Despite six-plus hours of testimony and questions from Senate lawmakers, Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s stance on 340B is still unclear. The HHS secretary nominee’s confirmation hearings did not touch on the drug pricing program, with lawmakers instead focusing primarily on the high-profile vaccine skeptic’s controversial statements about vaccines and his grasp of Medicare and Medicaid. Meanwhile, a 340B Report exclusive reveals that Mehmet Oz, President Donald Trump’s nominee to lead the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, has recent ties to a company that works with 340B hospitals to utilize the 340B program. With his son continuing to play a senior role in the business, Oz’s confirmation process could enable senators to learn more about his position on the 340B program.   

Federal Funding Freeze Sparks Chaos – Then Gets Reversed
A Trump administration memo that temporarily froze trillions in federal funds sent shockwaves through the healthcare sector, including 340B providers and community health centers. The freeze was quickly blocked by a judge and later rescinded, but concerns linger over future budget cuts. Republicans on Capitol Hill are also mulling potential Medicaid cuts to help cover the cost of Trump administration priorities, as well as restrictions on what 340B providers could charge employer-sponsored health plans for discounted drugs.

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