Gov. Shapiro signs law meant to help protect independently owned pharmacies [Video]

A new law providing relief for pharmacy owners and customers was signed into law in New Castle on Wednesday.

The legislation provides stronger protections for patients and increased oversight of Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs), who are considered the hidden middlemen of the supply chain.

Dozens of local pharmacies have been forced to shut their doors, and some say PBMs — third-party providers that go between pharmaceutical companies and insurance providers — are why.

The law signed by Gov. Josh Shapiro would help protect local pharmacies.

“I was dealing with a small family-owned stand-alone pharmacy and they went out of business,” Jack Melvin told Channel 11.

Since the start of 2024, more than 140 local drug stores have closed, including the one Melvin went to.

Melvin was able to have his prescription filled at the Hometown Pharmacy in downtown New Castle, which is now one of many independently owned pharmacies protected …