Arkansas House Bill HCR1011

Arkansas 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/23
• Refer: 3/7/23
• Report Pass: 3/9/23
• Refer: 3/13/23
• Report Pass: 3/15/23
• Passed: 3/17/23

Caption

To Encourage The United States Congress To Encourage The Use Of Unit Dose Packaging For Narcotics And Opioids To Preserve The Health And Safety Of All Citizens Of This Nation.

Impact

By advocating for unit dose packaging, the bill posits that the pharmaceutical industry can enhance patient compliance, reduce drug misuse, and mitigate the risks of overdoses. The resolution suggests that such packaging would keep drugs identifiable and maintain the integrity of dosages until administration, potentially saving lives. If implemented by Congress, this measure would not directly amend state laws, but it would set a federal guideline encouraging safer drug dispensing practices that states could adopt and promote.

Summary

HCR1011 is a House Concurrent Resolution aimed at encouraging the United States Congress to promote the use of unit dose packaging for narcotics and opioids. This legislative effort is a response to the alarming increase in drug overdose deaths in Arkansas, primarily attributed to the misuse of prescription medications. The resolution highlights that since 1999, the rate of such deaths has more than tripled, demonstrating an urgent need for legislative action to address this public health crisis and protect citizens' well-being.

Contention

Supporters of HCR1011 argue that implementing unit dose packaging can significantly reduce medication waste and improve safety. However, there may be contention regarding the financial implications for pharmaceutical manufacturers, who would need to adjust their production methods to accommodate unit dose packaging. Additionally, the bill raises questions about the reach of Congress in influencing state-level health initiatives and the responsibilities of pharmaceutical companies in ensuring patient safety. As this resolution is non-binding, its real impact relies on congressional response and subsequent actions from the relevant federal agencies.