West Virginia House Bill HB4216

West Virginia 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/18/22
• Refer: 1/18/22

Caption

Authorizing the Board of Pharmacy to promulgate a legislative rule relating to the Controlled Substances Monitoring Program.

Impact

The passage of HB4216 is expected to strengthen the mechanisms in place for monitoring prescribed controlled substances, enabling the Board of Pharmacy to create rules that help combat prescription drug abuse. By establishing a structured legislative rule surrounding the CSMP, the bill aims to create a more cohesive approach to drug monitoring and ensure that health professionals adhere to best practices in prescribing medications. This legislative action signifies a proactive step in addressing public health concerns related to substance abuse.

Summary

House Bill 4216 is a legislative measure aimed at authorizing the West Virginia Board of Pharmacy to promulgate rules regarding the Controlled Substances Monitoring Program (CSMP). This program is crucial for tracking the prescription and dispensing of controlled substances to combat drug abuse and ensure the safe usage of medications. The bill was introduced during the 2022 Regular Session and specifically targets amendments to Section 64-9-1 of the West Virginia Code, reflecting the ongoing efforts to enhance healthcare regulations in the state.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HB4216 appears to be supportive, particularly from members of the healthcare community and legislators focusing on public health issues. There is recognition of the importance of having strict regulatory measures in place to oversee the distribution of controlled substances. However, potential concerns may exist regarding the implementation of these rules and their impact on the workflow of pharmacy operations, which could lead to debates on balancing regulation and accessibility.

Contention

Although HB4216 does aim to improve the existing monitoring program, there are notable points of contention that might arise during discussions, such as the extent of authority granted to the Board of Pharmacy in setting these rules. This could lead to concerns from stakeholders about how these regulations might affect local pharmacies and healthcare providers, particularly regarding the balance between stringent monitoring and ensuring that patients can access necessary medications without excessive barriers.