CVS Faces Lawsuit Over Misuse of Customer Data for Political Messaging
CVS Health is embroiled in controversy following a lawsuit alleging the improper use of Louisiana customers’ personal information. The lawsuit, filed by the law firm Broussard, David and Moroux last week in St. Martin Parish, claims the pharmacy chain sent out mass text messages urging customers to contact legislators and oppose a failed bill, House Bill 358, which sought to restrict companies from owning both pharmacy benefits managers (PBMs) and pharmacies.
Attorney Jerome H. Moroux expressed concern over the ethical implications, stating, “Patient information is meant for health care, not political manipulation.” He emphasized that individuals expect their data to remain confidential and not be weaponized for political gain.
CVS maintains that its communications were lawful. Company spokesperson Amy Thibault emphasized the company’s commitment to serving Louisianans, asserting the texts were aimed at ensuring affordable drug access and protecting pharmacy jobs.
The controversial House Bill 358 would have targeted the influence of large pharmacy chains like CVS on the drug market, potentially forcing the company to shut down its 119 locations in Louisiana, which serve approximately 1 million patients. The mass messages warned customers of potential medication cost increases and job losses for pharmacists, drawing backlash from state officials, including Governor Jeff Landry and Attorney General Liz Murrill, who is investigating the situation.
The lawsuit accuses CVS of targeting thousands of Louisiana citizens with alarming messages that misrepresented the potential impact on their health care, particularly targeting vulnerable populations such as the elderly and disabled. The firm is seeking class-action status on behalf of potentially thousands of affected customers, arguing that CVS’s actions violated both the Louisiana Unfair Trade Practices Act and the Louisiana Pharmacy Practice Act.
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