Arkansas 2025 Regular Session

Arkansas House Bill HB1677

Introduced
3/4/25  
Refer
3/4/25  
Report Pass
3/6/25  
Refer
3/10/25  
Report Pass
3/20/25  
Engrossed
4/1/25  
Refer
4/1/25  
Report Pass
4/7/25  
Enrolled
4/10/25  
Chaptered
4/16/25  

Caption

To Authorize Alcohol And Drug Abuse Treatment Programs To Maintain Emergency Medication Kits.

Impact

The proposed legislation seeks to strengthen the healthcare response capabilities within drug abuse treatment facilities in Arkansas. By legislating the establishment of emergency medication kits, the bill aims to provide essential therapeutic resources for patients undergoing treatment, particularly in emergency scenarios where timely access to medications can significantly influence patient outcomes. The regulations build a framework for accountability and safety, stipulating that these kits must be overseen by licensed pharmacies and only utilized by qualified medical personnel.

Summary

House Bill 1677 aims to empower alcohol and drug abuse treatment programs by allowing them to maintain emergency medication kits. This amendment to the Arkansas Code specifies the conditions under which these programs, including detoxification facilities, can operate such kits. The bill outlines requirements for having qualified medical staff on site to administer medications, ensuring the safety and efficacy of the treatments provided in these facilities. The intent is to ensure that patients have immediate access to necessary medications that might not be available elsewhere in critical situations.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1677 appears to be largely supportive amongst those in the healthcare community. Advocates believe that by formalizing the use of emergency medication kits in drug treatment settings, the bill will enhance the overall effectiveness of substance abuse programs and improve recovery outcomes for individuals. This measure is seen as a proactive approach to deal with addiction crises, aligning treatment practices with current healthcare standards.

Contention

While the discussions around HB 1677 are predominantly positive, there are potential points of contention related to the specifics of implementation. Critics may voice concerns about the adequacy of resources at such treatment programs to manage emergency medication kits effectively, as well as the potential implications for liability and regulatory compliance. Additionally, discussions may surface regarding the types of medications that should be included in these kits, given the sensitivity around substance control and patient safety.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AR SB341

To Amend The Commercial Driver Alcohol And Drug Testing Act To Comply With Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Regulations.

AR HB1109

To Authorize The State Board Of Examiners Of Alcoholism And Drug Abuse Counselors To Require Criminal Background Checks For Applicants For Licensure.

AR HB1558

To Amend The Prior Authorization Transparency Act; And To Modify The Medication-assisted Treatment Under The Prior Authorization Transparency Act.

AR HB1271

To Amend The Prior Authorization Transparency Act; And To Exempt Certain Healthcare Providers That Provide Certain Healthcare Services From Prior Authorization Requirements.

AR HB1662

To Exempt The Sale Of Veterinary Drugs And Medicine If Based On A Prescription Of A Licensed Veterinarian From The Licensure Requirements For A Pharmacist And A Pharmacy; And To Declare An Emergency.

AR SB487

To Amend The Law Regarding Alcoholic Beverages; To Authorize The Third-party Delivery Of Alcoholic Beverages From Certain Retailers; And To Create A Third-party Delivery Permit.

AR HB1250

To Amend The Prescription Drug Monitoring Program Advisory Committee; And To Amend The Confidentiality Of And The Providing Of Information By The Prescription Drug Monitoring Program.

AR SB265

To Create The Hospital Pharmacy Continuity Of Care Endorsement To Allow Hospitals To Dispense Outpatient Medications For Certain Patients.

AR HB1305

To Restore And Protect Parental Rights; And To Amend The Consent To Treatment Authorization For Minors.

AR SB472

To Amend The Law Regarding Alcoholic Beverages; And To Authorize A State Park To Sell Alcoholic Beverages For On-premises Consumption Without Obtaining A Permit From The Alcoholic Beverage Control Division.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.