Texas House Bill HB2088

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to providing information and other resources regarding safe disposal of Schedule II controlled substance prescription drugs.

Impact

The bill amends Section 481.075 of the Health and Safety Code, aiming to enhance public health and safety by ensuring that the disposal of Schedule II controlled substances is managed effectively. This law is set to apply to any such drugs dispensed on or after January 1, 2020. By legislating the requirements for proper disposal, the bill seeks to reduce the potential for misuse and environmental contamination stemming from discarded pharmaceuticals. The board responsible for overseeing compliance can impose disciplinary action against those who fail to adhere to these new guidelines.

Summary

House Bill 2088 focuses on the safe disposal of Schedule II controlled substance prescription drugs. The bill mandates that pharmacists and dispensers provide written notice regarding the safe disposal of these drugs unless the drug is dispensed at a facility that has a take-back program. The legislation further stipulates the provisions for providing a mail-in pouch or chemicals to render unused drugs unusable or non-retrievable to mitigate the risks associated with improper disposal.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 2088 has been supportive among legislators and public health advocates who view the legislation as a necessary measure to curb the opioid crisis and promote safe public health practices. There is broad agreement on the importance of preventing the misuse of prescription drugs, particularly those classified as Schedule II, which are often subject to abuse. However, concerns may arise regarding the practical implementation of these requirements and the burden they may place on pharmacies and dispensers.

Contention

A notable point of contention is the logistical challenge pharmacies might face in providing such disposal information and resources, especially smaller establishments that may lack the infrastructure or resources to distribute mail-in pouches or chemicals for rendering drugs unusable. Some stakeholders may argue that the bill could impose additional costs or operational changes that could be burdensome for certain dispensers. Balancing the need for public safety with the practicality of implementation presents an ongoing consideration in discussions around HB 2088.