Relating to the regulation of controlled substances and the establishment of an electronic system for monitoring controlled substances; providing criminal penalties; authorizing a fee.
Impact
The implementation of this bill is projected to have a significant impact on state laws concerning controlled substances. Specifically, it necessitates that all entities dealing with controlled substances must be registered with the Texas State Board of Pharmacy, which will oversee the new electronic monitoring system. By enforcing these regulations, the bill aims to create a more secure and manageable framework that enhances compliance with existing drug laws and improves oversight to avoid drug misuse.
Summary
House Bill 3301 relates to the regulation of controlled substances in Texas, establishing an electronic system for monitoring prescription drug orders. This bill aims to improve the state's capacity to identify and prevent the diversion of Schedule II through V controlled substances while ensuring proper medical use. One of the proposed mechanisms involves strict registration and regulation for individuals or entities involved in the manufacture, distribution, and dispensation of these drugs, making it clear that only registered parties may engage in such activities.
Sentiment
General sentiment surrounding HB 3301 appears to be supportive among legislators and public health advocates who see the need for stricter measures to combat prescription drug abuse. However, concerns arise from stakeholders who fear the increased regulatory burden may lead to heightened operational costs for practitioners and dispensers. Advocacy groups emphasize the importance of striking a balance between effective regulation and accessible healthcare services.
Contention
Notable points of contention include the potential financial implications for healthcare providers who must comply with the new registration process and electronic monitoring requirements. Some express skepticism about the efficacy of these measures in actually curbing drug abuse, arguing that more comprehensive approaches to treatment and education may be necessary as well. Overall, the bill embodies both progress in drug regulation and complexity in its execution, highlighting the ongoing challenge in addressing substance abuse issues.
Relating to the sharing of controlled substance prescription monitoring information between the Texas State Board of Pharmacy and the Health and Human Services Commission for the state Medicaid program.
Relating to a pilot program under which lockable, tamper-evident containers are used by participating pharmacies when dispensing schedule II controlled substances.
Relating to the regulation of the cultivation, manufacture, processing, distribution, sale, testing, transportation, delivery, transfer, possession, use, and taxation of cannabis and cannabis products and local regulation of cannabis establishments; authorizing the imposition of fees; requiring an occupational license; creating a criminal offense; imposing a tax.
Relating to the regulation of controlled substances and the establishment of an electronic system for monitoring controlled substances; providing criminal penalties.
Relating to prescriptions for certain controlled substances, access to information about those prescriptions, and the duties of prescribers and other entities registered with the Federal Drug Enforcement Administration; authorizing fees.
Relating to the prescribing and dispensing of controlled substances under the Texas Controlled Substances Act; authorizing a fee; providing for administrative penalties; creating criminal offenses.
Relating to the lawful manufacture, distribution, and possession of and prescriptions for controlled substances under the Texas Controlled Substances Act.