Texas House Bill HR1695

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Introduced: 4/29/09
• Refer: 5/1/09

Caption

Encouraging all Texans to properly dispose of prescription and over-the-counter drugs.

Impact

The resolution does not create new laws but acts as a formal encouragement to the residents of Texas, promoting awareness about safe drug disposal methods. It aims to educate the public about the dangers of flushing medications or throwing them away without proper precautions. By highlighting the preferred disposal method of mixing medications with undesirable substances and sealing them before disposal, the resolution seeks to foster a culture of responsible medication management among citizens, potentially reducing the risks associated with drug abuse and environmental harm.

Summary

House Resolution 1695 encourages Texans to properly dispose of their unused prescription and over-the-counter medications to prevent drug diversion and protect public health. It emphasizes the importance of following federal guidelines established by the FDA and the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy, which recommends specific disposal methods for these medications. The resolution underscores the health risks associated with improper disposal, such as the potential for accidental ingestion by children and pets and environmental contamination due to improper waste management practices.

Contention

While the resolution is largely supportive and not contentious in nature, there may be discussions around its implementation and the effectiveness of educational campaigns to promote these disposal practices. Concerns could arise regarding the accessibility of disposal resources and the public's adherence to these guidelines, especially in communities that may lack awareness or access to proper disposal methods. Overall, the resolution is designed to unite efforts in addressing the issues surrounding medication waste, rather than creating divisive debate.