Senate Bill 71, which targets certain practices by participants in the supply chain for drugs purchased under the federal 340B program, passed the Colorado Senate March 26, 2025, after floor debate and the reading of a stakeholder letter opposing the measure.

Senator Michaelson Janae, a sponsor, moved SB 71 for final passage. Supporters described the bill as a transparency and accountability measure that would help ensure savings or community benefits tied to 340B support local care. Senator Rich and other backers thanked stakeholders and staff for months of work on the legislation.

Opposition remarks on the floor included a reading by Senator Gonzales of a letter from Servicio de la Raza, which stated strong opposition to Senate Bill 71 and expressed concern that the measure, as written, could perpetuate harms to marginalized communities by allowing hospitals or systems to retain savings instead of ensuring equitable distribution. The letter referenced investigations and reports by the U.S. Government Accountability Office and the Office of Inspector General that documented problematic uses of 340B savings in some cases.

Senator Rich also recounted concerns from rural hospitals that could be affected, noting potential job losses and facility impacts if certain entities were not covered by exemptions. At least one senator who spoke in support said she would vote for both SB 71 and related measures, though she urged further work to address limits on the number of covered contract pharmacies.

On final passage the Senate recorded a vote of 30 ayes, 4 no, 0 absent and 1 excused and the bill was passed. Sponsors and cosponsors were entered on the record; the Senate will proceed with enrollment and transmittal steps required by legislative process.