Assemblyman Brian Miller (R,C-New Hartford) was proud to co-sponsor Assembly Bill A.5882, legislation aimed at strengthening and protecting New York's independent pharmacies. The bill addresses financial challenges facing community pharmacies by ensuring fairer reimbursement practices and helping these vital health-care providers remain open and accessible to the patients who depend on them.

Independent pharmacies serve as a critical health-care lifeline, particularly in rural and underserved communities where access to doctors, hospitals and other health-care services may be limited. Beyond dispensing medications, local pharmacists provide vaccinations, health screenings, medication counseling and trusted medical advice. The closure of a community pharmacy can create significant barriers for residents, especially seniors and individuals with limited transportation options.

“I have been proud to co-sponsor this bill because I understand just how important local pharmacies are to the communities I represent. In many of our rural areas, access to health-care services can already be limited, and for many constituents, their local pharmacy is often the most accessible health-care resource they have. These pharmacies do far more than fill prescriptions. When a local pharmacy closes, it can mean residents, especially seniors and those with limited transportation, must travel long distances just to access the medications and care they need. I have worked with pharmacists throughout my district and have heard firsthand about the challenges they face. They are employers, community partners and an essential part of our local economies. By supporting our independent pharmacies, we are helping preserve access to health care while also supporting the small businesses that keep our communities strong.”