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H8477
2026 -- H 8477
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LC006385
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STATE OF RHODE ISLAND
IN GENERAL ASSEMBLY
JANUARY SESSION, A.D. 2026
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H O U S E R E S O L U T I O N
RECOGNIZING THE VITAL ROLE OF INDEPENDENT COMMUNITY PHARMACIES IN
RHODE ISLAND
Introduced By:
Representatives Kislak, Shekarchi, Blazejewski, Chippendale, Corvese,
Kennedy, Tanzi, Ajello, Fellela, and Cortvriend
Date Introduced:
April 28, 2026
Referred To:
House read and passed
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WHEREAS, Independent community pharmacies are a cornerstone of Rhode Island’s
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healthcare system, providing accessible, personalized, and trusted care to residents in every part
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of the state; and
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WHEREAS, These pharmacies are locally owned small businesses that support
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neighborhood economies, create jobs, and serve as reliable healthcare access points—particularly
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for seniors, individuals with chronic conditions, and residents in underserved areas; and
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WHEREAS, Independent pharmacists provide essential services beyond dispensing
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medications, including counseling, immunizations, chronic disease support, and coordination of
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care with other healthcare providers; and
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WHEREAS, The pharmacy landscape is evolving, with changes in how and where
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patients access prescription medications, including the reduction of physical retail locations by
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national pharmacy chains; and
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WHEREAS, As access points shift, independent community pharmacies continue to
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provide consistent, in-person care and often serve as a dependable option for patients seeking
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continuity and personalized service; and
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WHEREAS, Independent pharmacies operate within a complex healthcare and
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reimbursement environment, including interactions with pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) and
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public programs such as Medicaid, which play a role in shaping how pharmacy services are
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delivered and sustained; and
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WHEREAS, Maintaining a strong network of independent community pharmacies
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supports patient choice, promotes access to medications, and contributes to a resilient,
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community-based healthcare system; now, therefore be it
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RESOLVED, That this House of Representatives of the State of Rhode Island hereby
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recognizes and honors the independent community pharmacies of Rhode Island for their essential
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contributions to patient care, public health, and local economies; and be it further
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RESOLVED, That the House expresses its appreciation for the pharmacists and staff who
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serve their communities with dedication and professionalism; and be it further
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RESOLVED, That the Secretary of State be and hereby is authorized and directed to
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transmit duly certified copies of this resolution to the Rhode Island Pharmacists Association and
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to independent pharmacies throughout Rhode Island.
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LC006385
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