Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

Massachusetts Senate Bill S1251

Introduced
2/16/23  
Refer
2/16/23  

Caption

Strengthening prescription drug safety and drug stewardship

Impact

If passed, the bill will significantly amend existing statutes related to prescription drug management. By removing outdated legislative frameworks, SB 1251 will allow for up-to-date practices in drug stewardship that align more closely with current public health needs and safety protocols. The efforts outlined in the bill are designed to prevent misuse and enhance the overall security surrounding prescription drugs, which is crucial in addressing substance use issues that have pervasive effects statewide.

Summary

Senate Bill 1251, also known as the Act Strengthening Prescription Drug Safety and Drug Stewardship, aims to enhance the framework surrounding the safety and stewardship of prescription drugs within the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The bill seeks to repeal specific provisions from previous acts that may no longer serve the public's best interests, thus fostering more effective management of prescription medications. This move comes amid ongoing concerns regarding the safety of drugs and the adverse effects of substance use in communities.

Contention

During the discussions surrounding SB 1251, some points of contention may arise, especially regarding the extent of changes to existing laws and the balance of new regulations against the freedom of prescribing practices. Legislators and stakeholders will need to carefully navigate concerns about potential overreach, ensuring that while safety measures are enhanced, healthcare providers are not overly restricted in their ability to prescribe necessary medications. Ongoing debates will likely focus on the effectiveness of the proposed changes versus any unintended consequences they might present.

Companion Bills

MA S1271

Similar To Relative to fetal opioid drug exposure

MA S1265

Similar To To increase substance use prevention and awareness and reduce overdose abandonment

MA S1242

Similar To Relative to preventing overdose deaths and increasing access to treatment

MA H4634

Replaced by Study Order

Previously Filed As

MA S1552

Relative to expanding the newborn screening panel

MA S1405

Repealing the sunset date for drug stewardship

MA S1195

Relative to railroad workers' earned sick time

MA S1342

Relative to railroad workers' earned sick time

MA S381

Limiting cell phones in classrooms

MA S383

To create a facilities loan program for private special education schools

MA S1139

To restore the statute of limitations for deaths due to tobacco use

MA S295

To create a facilities loan program for private special education schools

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.