California Senate Bill SB310

California 2021-2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/4/21
• Refer: 2/17/21
• Report Pass: 3/8/21
• Refer: 3/8/21
• Refer: 3/25/21
• Report Pass: 4/7/21
• Refer: 4/8/21
• Report Pass: 5/20/21
• Engrossed: 6/1/21
• Refer: 6/10/21
• Refer: 6/21/21
• Report Pass: 6/22/21
• Refer: 6/22/21
• Refer: 7/6/21
• Report Pass: 7/15/21
• Refer: 8/16/21
• Report Pass: 8/26/21
• Enrolled: 9/10/21
• Chaptered: 10/5/21
• Passed: 10/5/21

Caption

Unused medications: cancer medication recycling.

Impact

The enactment of SB 310 is expected to have significant implications for state law regarding medication distribution and public health initiatives. By providing a process for recycling unused cancer medications, the bill enhances the efficiency of resource utilization in the healthcare sector. Practitioners participating in the program are exempt from some licensing requirements and are provided protection from liability under specific conditions, which could encourage greater participation from healthcare providers.

Summary

Senate Bill 310, known as the Cancer Medication Recycling Act, establishes a framework for managing and distributing unused cancer medications in California. The bill aims to create a structured program until January 1, 2027, for collecting surplus cancer medications through a regulated intermediary. Furthermore, it allows healthcare providers registered with an intermediary to distribute these medications to patients, potentially reducing waste and increasing access to cancer treatments for those in need.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SB 310 appears generally positive among advocates for healthcare access, viewing the program as a beneficial mechanism to support patients undergoing cancer treatment. However, there may be underlying concerns regarding the safety and proper management of collected medications, which could be a point of contention among healthcare professionals wary of regulations and potential liabilities associated with drug redistribution.

Contention

Debate surrounding SB 310 might arise from concerns related to ensuring the safety and efficacy of redistributed medications, as only certain drugs will be eligible for collection and distribution. The bill excludes controlled substances and compounds, which has raised questions regarding its overall effectiveness in addressing the comprehensive needs of cancer patients. Critics may also question the adequacy of oversight mechanisms that ensure compliance by participating practitioners and intermediaries involved in the recycling program.