Senator Lankford Targets Prescription Drug Middlemen

New federal funding package includes Lankford-backed provisions to lower drug costs

Published on Feb. 4, 2026

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A new federal funding package signed into law includes provisions championed by Senator James Lankford (R-OK) aimed at lowering prescription drug costs by cracking down on Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs), the middlemen between drug manufacturers and pharmacies.

Why it matters

PBMs have faced growing scrutiny for their role in driving up drug prices, with critics arguing their opaque business practices allow them to pocket large rebates while passing higher costs on to consumers. Lankford's efforts to rein in PBMs could provide relief for Oklahomans struggling with the high cost of medications.

The details

The new funding package includes measures that will increase transparency around PBM practices and prohibit them from engaging in certain tactics that inflate drug prices. This includes banning 'gag clauses' that prevent pharmacists from informing patients when they could pay less out-of-pocket by not using their insurance.

  • The new federal funding package was signed into law in February 2026.

The players

Senator James Lankford

A Republican senator from Oklahoma who has been a vocal advocate for lowering prescription drug costs by reining in the practices of Pharmacy Benefit Managers.

Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs)

Intermediaries between drug manufacturers and pharmacies that have been criticized for opaque business practices that contribute to rising drug prices.

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What they’re saying

“Oklahomans deserve access to affordable prescription drugs, and these new reforms will help lower costs by increasing transparency and accountability for PBMs.”

— Senator James Lankford (KWON Radio Bartlesville)

What’s next

The new provisions targeting PBMs are expected to be implemented over the next year, with the goal of providing relief to consumers on their prescription drug costs.

The takeaway

Senator Lankford's successful push to rein in PBM practices through this federal funding package represents a significant step towards addressing the longstanding issue of high prescription drug prices in Oklahoma and across the country.