Nation’s first drug affordability board becomes law today

A first-of-its-kind measure that created a state board in Maryland to cap payments for expensive prescription drugs becomes law today. Earlier this year, state lawmakers passed a measure to create the Prescription Drug Affordability Board, which will have the power to set price limits for drugs paid for by state and local governments. In May, Republican Gov. Larry Hogan declined to either veto or approve the measure, clearing its path forward. The law — which doesn’t go into effect until 2022 — was fiercely opposed by pharma lobbyists. They did win a few concessions before the measure was approved: For instance, the new five-member state board can't enact a price cap without the permission of top lawmakers in Annapolis, which could be a potential impediment to setting limits for pricey treatments.