The bill would collectively save Vermonters millions each year on their prescriptions
Vermont Business Magazine Treasurer Pieciak’s legislative proposal to lower prescription drug costs (H.577) earned unanimous, bi-partisan approval from the House Health Care committee on Thursday. It's the first major step toward the bill becoming law and saving Vermonters millions each year on their over-the-counter medications.
This proposal would offer all Vermonters, regardless of their coverage, a free drug discount card—saving up to 80% off generic drugs and up to 20% off name-brand medications.
As Affordable Care Act subsidies expire and cuts to Medicaid take effect, the program would be a critical safety net to the tens of thousands of uninsured and underinsured Vermonters paying fully out-of-pocket for their prescriptions.
Treasurer Pieciak emphasized that the program would move Vermont toward a health care system that works for people, not against them.
"Prescription drugs are a significant driver of the high cost of healthcare in Vermont,” said Treasurer Pieciak. “As even more Vermonters become exposed to higher out-of-pocket costs, this proposal would help ensure patients can afford the medications their doctors prescribe and prioritize their health—all without adding a dime to their tax bill.”
Pieciak continued, “I want to thank the House Health Care committee, and recognize the leadership of Chair Alyssa Black, for moving this common-sense proposal forward, which will achieve meaningful savings for Vermonters on their health care.”
Chair Alyssa Black, the bill’s lead House sponsor, said, “Too often, the House Health Care committee hears from Vermonters struggling to balance their health care with basic needs like housing and groceries. This plan is a meaningful step toward alleviating that stress and supporting better outcomes for patients.”
Under H.577, Vermont would join ArrayRx, a partnership of states pooling their buying power to negotiate lower drug prices for patients. Joining the partnership would give Vermonters access to a free drug discount card offering lower costs when insurance or Medicare does not cover a prescription—or whenever the discount gives them a better deal.
The discount card is accepted at most pharmacies nationwide and can be used for almost any FDA–approved medication, including treatments for chronic illness, mental health, and everyday medical needs.
If just 1% of Vermonters (about 6,480 people) enroll, they could collectively save $18,118,080 million per year on their prescriptions, assuming savings match Connecticut, where ArrayRx users save about $233 per month.
Treasurer Pieciak emphasized that Vermont’s health care costs remain among the highest in the nation, and more action is urgently needed to make care more affordable and accessible for Vermonters.
“Joining ArrayRx will lower health care costs, achieve better health outcomes, and have a big impact without a big price tag,” said Treasurer Pieciak. “Long term, our office will continue working to ensure every Vermonter can get the care they need—when they need it—without going bankrupt.”
H.577 will be sent to the House Ways and Means committee for further approval. Learn more about the proposal here.
2.6.2026. Montpelier, VT – Treasurer
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