Subject to §C of this regulation, entities eligible to participate in the Maryland Rx Program as purchasing pool members are: Local governments; and Qualifying not-for-profit organizations. To join the Maryland Rx Program as a purchasing pool member, an entity that meets the requirements of §A of this regulation may submit a statement of interest and a written commitment, executed by an official authorized to bind the entity, to meet the requirements of this chapter to the Department or to the contractor, agent, or representative identified by the Department for management and administration of the Maryland Rx Program. The determination whether an entity is eligible to be a purchasing pool member shall be made by the Pharmacy Benefits Manager (PBM). The PBM shall provide verifying documentation as requested by the Director for auditing purposes. An entity who has been determined by the PBM to be ineligible to be a purchasing pool member may appeal the decision to the Director. The appeal shall be submitted in writing to the Director within 30 calendar days of the date of the written denial from the PBM. The Director’s decision is final.