New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill S2517

Introduced
2/5/24  

Caption

Requires person picking up prescriptions for Schedule II controlled dangerous substances to present identification.

Impact

Upon enactment, S2517 will amend existing regulations in New Jersey concerning the dispensing of Schedule II controlled substances. It will establish clear documentation requirements for pharmacists, ensuring that they log the name, amount, and the identity of the individual receiving the medication. This will not only strengthen operational standards in pharmacies but also contribute to improved oversight of prescription medications, potentially reducing instances of misuse.

Summary

Bill S2517 mandates that any individual collecting prescriptions for Schedule II controlled dangerous substances must provide a valid photographic identification or another acceptable proof of identity. This legislation aims to enhance security and regulation surrounding controlled dangerous substances, aligning with efforts to combat prescription drug abuse and illegal distribution. Under this bill, pharmacists are required to verify the identity of the person picking up these prescriptions and maintain a detailed logbook recording pertinent information about the transaction.

Contention

The primary point of contention surrounding S2517 revolves around the additional burden it places on pharmacists and the potential implications for patient access to necessary medications. While supporters believe that strict identification and logging will deter fraud and misuse, critics might argue that such stringent requirements could create barriers for legitimate patients who need these medications, particularly in urgent situations. Furthermore, concerns about compliance and administrative workload for pharmacies may also arise.

Implementation

The bill requires the Commissioner of Health and the State Board of Pharmacy to adopt regulations to enforce its provisions. These rules will guide how pharmacists should manage the identification and logging process, ensuring consistency and clarity in implementation. The legislation will take effect 60 days following its enactment, allowing time for these regulations to be established and communicated to the relevant stakeholders.

Companion Bills

NJ S952

Carry Over Requires persons picking up prescriptions for Schedule II controlled dangerous substances to present identification.

Previously Filed As

NJ S952

Requires persons picking up prescriptions for Schedule II controlled dangerous substances to present identification.

NJ A5488

Classifies xylazine as Schedule III controlled dangerous substance under certain circumstances; requires reporting of xylazine prescriptions.

NJ SB594

Relating to the regulation of prescriptions for controlled substances, including certain procedures applicable to electronic prescriptions for Schedule II controlled substances.

NJ HB2246

Relating to certain procedures applicable to electronic prescriptions for Schedule II controlled substances.

NJ SB1338

Controlled dangerous substances; modifying certain definitions; modifying Schedule I and Schedule III. Effective date.

NJ SB134

Provides relative to prescriptions for controlled dangerous substances. (8/1/18)

NJ SB1109

Controlled substances: Schedule II drugs: opioids.

NJ HB174

Provides with respect to the scheduling of controlled dangerous substances

NJ HB3073

Controlled dangerous substances; adding exception to opioid prescription requirements.

NJ HB3567

Controlled dangerous substances; adding to list of Schedule I controlled substances; revocation or suspension of registrations; written orders; repealers; emergency.

Similar Bills

CA AB40

CURES database: health information technology system.

NJ S952

Requires persons picking up prescriptions for Schedule II controlled dangerous substances to present identification.

CA AB1341

Public health: oral therapeutics.

CA AB1752

Controlled substances: CURES database.

CA AB401

Pharmacy: remote dispensing site pharmacy: telepharmacy: shared clinic office space.

CA SB641

Mexican prepaid health plans.

AZ SB1569

Pharmacy technician trainees; pharmacists; compounding