(5) If the average cost for one or more prescription drugs under the Maine Rx Plus Program as determined in subparagraph (3) is not reasonably comparable to the average lowest cost for the same drug or drugs as determined in subparagraph (4), the commissioner shall establish maximum retail prices for any or all prescription drugs sold in the State. Maximum prescription drug prices established under this subparagraph must take effect July 1, 2003 2006.

Sec. 11. PL 2001, c. 405, §3 is amended to read:

*Sec. 3. Effective date. This Act takes effect on the date that the Department of Human Services begins offering prescription drug benefits under the Maine Rx Plus Program as defined established in the Maine Revised Statutes, Title 22, section 2681.

Sec. 12. Appropriations and allocations. The following appropriations and allocations are made.

HUMAN SERVICES, DEPARTMENT OF

Maine Rx Plus Program

Initiative: Appropriates funds for the following unfunded positions for which a position count has already been established: one Social Services Program Manager position, one Comprehensive Health Planner II position, one Financial Analyst position, one Senior Medical Claims Adjuster position and 2 Clerk Typist III positions. It also appropriates funds for necessary operating costs, including outreach activities, claims management services and for costs associated with the issuance of prescription cards.

General Fund 2003-04 2004-05

Personal Services $172,022 $344,044

All Other 627,978 1,655,956

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