RDCSB55 2270 3226
DIGEST
The digest printed below was prepared by House Legislative Services. It constitutes no part
of the legislative instrument. The keyword, one-liner, abstract, and digest do not constitute
part of the law or proof or indicia of legislative intent. [R.S. 1:13(B) and 24:177(E)]
SB 55 Engrossed 2017 Regular Session Mills
Present law provides for who must obtain a controlled dangerous substance license in
Louisiana. Proposed law clarifies that individuals who conduct research with, procure,
possess, or prescribe controlled dangerous substances in La. must also obtain a license to do
so in Louisiana prior to engaging in any such activity.
Present law provides enrollment access to the Prescription Monitoring Program for
prescribing practitioners. Proposed law establishes a process for automatic enrollment into
the Prescription Monitoring Program upon initial licensure or upon annual renewal of a
prescriber's controlled dangerous substance license.
Present law provides for when a prescriber shall access the Prescription Monitoring
Program.
Proposed law expands the mandate to access the program prior to initially prescribing any
opioid or if the patient's course of treatment continues for more than 90 days. It further
provides for exceptions when a prescriber is not required to check the program.
Proposed law requires all prescribers in La. to obtain three continuing education credit hours
as a prerequisite of license renewal in the first annual renewal cycle after Jan. 1, 2018.
Successful completion of the requirement once shall satisfy the requirement in full. The
course shall be in drug diversion training, best practice prescribing of controlled substances,
and appropriate treatment for addiction.
Proposed law requires the health profession licensing boards that regulate prescribing
practitioners to promulgate rules and regulations to implement the continuing education
requirements established by proposed law, requires the boards to collect and maintain data
on compliance and submit aggregate data to the Senate and House committees on health and
welfare regarding compliance, and clarifies that these continuing education hours shall be
considered among those already required on the effective date of proposed law and not be
in addition to what is already required.
Proposed law provisions relative to licensing requirements and prescription requirements are
effective upon signature of the governor or upon lapse of time for gubernatorial action.
Proposed law provisions relative to continuing education are effective Jan. 1, 2018.
(Amends R.S. 40:973(A) and 978(F); Adds R.S. 40:978.3)
Summary of Amendments Adopted by Senate
Committee Amendments Proposed by Senate Committee on Health and Welfare to
the original bill
1. Clarifies that the prescriber or his delegate can access the prescription
monitoring program (PMP).
2. Changes the drug classification that requires prescribers to access the PMP
from Schedule II controlled dangerous substances to opioids.
3. Adds exemptions from accessing the system if a patient is being treated in a
hospital or if the prescription is for less than seven days.
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4. Eliminates the need for subsequent continuing education after the first three
hour credit is earned.
Summary of Amendments Adopted by House
The Committee Amendments Proposed by House Committee on Health and Welfare to
the engrossed bill:
1. Provide for an effective date for all sections of the Act.
2. Make technical changes.
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