Louisiana Probes CVS Over PBM Lobbying Tactics

Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill and Governor Jeff Landry are investigating CVS Pharmacy for allegedly misusing sensitive health and contact information obtained via a state contract in a mass text campaign opposing House Bill 358. The bill seeks to prohibit pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) from owning pharmacies, a move designed to protect independent pharmacies and increase patient choice. CVS contends the legislation could result in store closures, while critics accuse the company of scare tactics and politically motivated misuse of personal data, particularly concerning Office of Group Benefits members. Both AG Murrill and Governor Landry have publicly condemned CVS's actions as unethical and manipulative and indicated legal action will be taken if violations are confirmed. The controversy has fueled broader scrutiny of PBM practices and how corporations use personal data for lobbying. Independent pharmacists maintain the bill is about industry fairness, not targeting CVS specifically.