Texas House Bill HB97

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Filed: 11/10/08

Caption

Relating to the membership and operation of the Texas State Board of Pharmacy.

Impact

The legislation also includes measures to regulate how the board manages information pertaining to license holders, instituting stricter rules around information disclosure. The board is now required to notify license holders of any disclosures made under a court order, thereby improving transparency and accountability. Moreover, it introduces a risk-based approach to inspections, which will tailor oversight according to the specific circumstances and history of each license holder, emphasizing compliance over punitive action.

Summary

House Bill 97 amends the structure and operational procedures of the Texas State Board of Pharmacy by enhancing its independence and regulatory authority. One of the key provisions is the prohibition against board members and employees who have affiliations with other governmental entities involved in drug regulation. This aims to prevent conflicts of interest and ensure that the board operates independently of external influences, potentially reinforcing public trust in its functions.

Contention

There are contentious points surrounding the new stipulations for board membership and employment, as the bill mandates the removal of current board members who do not meet these new standards. This has raised concerns about the potential for instability within the board and prompted debates about the balance between oversight and the continuity of regulatory practices. Stakeholders are divided on whether these changes are necessary for improved governance or present an overreach in the operational independence of the board.

Overall_conclusion

In essence, while HB 97 seeks to fortify the Texas State Board of Pharmacy's role in drug and medical device regulation, it also invites scrutiny over its implications for state oversight and local governance within the pharmacy sector.