Indiana House Bill HB1057

Indiana 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/4/22
• Refer: 1/4/22

Caption

Prescription drug donation repositories.

Impact

The bill mandates that only eligible recipients—those whose income is below 200% of the federal poverty level or who have limited health insurance coverage—can benefit from the donated medications. This initiative is designed to improve healthcare access for low-income individuals by providing necessary medications at little to no cost. Additionally, health care facilities and pharmacies that choose to participate as local repositories must comply with specific regulations regarding the storage and distribution of donated drugs, promoting safety and quality in health services.

Summary

House Bill 1057 establishes a prescription drug donation repository program in Indiana, aimed at facilitating the donation of prescription drugs and medical supplies. The bill allows individuals to donate unused prescription medications to designated central or local repositories, which can then distribute these medications to eligible recipients in need. A critical aspect of the bill is that it prohibits the donation of controlled substances, ensuring that the program focuses solely on non-controlled prescription medications and medical supplies with strict eligibility requirements for recipients.

Contention

Notably, the bill includes provisions to grant immunity from civil liability to donors and participating entities acting in good faith, which aims to encourage participation in the program. However, the scope of immunity may raise concerns among potential donors about the risks associated with drug donation and the consequences of potential adverse outcomes related to donated medications. Critics may voice apprehensions about the adequacy of safety measures and the need for detailed oversight to ensure that public health is not compromised, particularly given the complexities involved in managing donated pharmaceuticals.