2026 -- S 3233

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LC006349

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     STATE OF RHODE ISLAND

IN GENERAL ASSEMBLY

JANUARY SESSION, A.D. 2026

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S E N A T E   R E S O L U T I O N

RECOGNIZING THE VITAL ROLE OF INDEPENDENT COMMUNITY PHARMACIES IN

RHODE ISLAND

     Introduced By: Senators Ujifusa, LaMountain, Tikoian, Valverde, McKenney,
Famiglietti, Appollonio, Rogers, Felag, and Mack

     Date Introduced: April 28, 2026

     Referred To: Recommended for Immediate Consideration

     WHEREAS, Independent community pharmacies are a cornerstone of Rhode Island’s

healthcare system, providing accessible, personalized, and trusted care to residents in every part

of the state; and

     WHEREAS, These pharmacies are locally owned small businesses that support

neighborhood economies, create jobs, and serve as reliable healthcare access points—particularly

for seniors, individuals with chronic conditions, and residents in underserved areas; and

     WHEREAS, Independent pharmacists provide essential services beyond dispensing

medications, including counseling, immunizations, chronic disease support, and coordination of

care with other healthcare providers; and

     WHEREAS, The pharmacy landscape is evolving, with changes in how and where

patients access prescription medications, including the reduction of physical retail locations by

national pharmacy chains; and

     WHEREAS, As access points shift, independent community pharmacies continue to

provide consistent, in-person care and often serve as a dependable option for patients seeking

continuity and personalized service; and

     WHEREAS, Independent pharmacies operate within a complex healthcare and

reimbursement environment, including interactions with pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) and

public programs such as Medicaid, which play a role in shaping how pharmacy services are

delivered and sustained; and

     WHEREAS, Maintaining a strong network of independent community pharmacies

supports patient choice, promotes access to medications, and contributes to a resilient,

community-based healthcare system; now, therefore be it

     RESOLVED, That this Senate of the State of Rhode Island hereby recognizes and honors

the independent community pharmacies of Rhode Island for their essential contributions to

patient care, public health, and local economies; and be it further

     RESOLVED, That the Senate expresses its appreciation for the pharmacists and staff

who serve their communities with dedication and professionalism; and be it further

     RESOLVED, That the Secretary of State be and hereby is authorized and directed to

transmit duly certified copies of this resolution to the Rhode Island Pharmacists Association and

to independent pharmacies throughout Rhode Island.

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LC006349

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