Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas State Board of Pharmacy; authorizing a reduction in fees.
Impact
The enactment of SB306 is expected to solidify the authority of the Texas State Board of Pharmacy by extending its operational timeline until at least September 1, 2029. It enhances the state's ability to monitor prescription practices more effectively through digital means and introduces conditions under which pharmacy technicians can renew their registrations. By enforcing these regulations, SB306 aims to reduce instances of drug abuse and promote patient safety through better oversight of pharmacists' activities.
Summary
SB306, relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas State Board of Pharmacy, aims to enhance the oversight of pharmaceutical practices in Texas by implementing stricter guidelines for prescription monitoring and pharmacy technician registration. The bill emphasizes the significance of electronic tracking systems for controlled substances and mandates that pharmacists verify patient behaviors that may suggest abuse or diversion of drugs. Additionally, it outlines new training requirements for pharmacy board members to ensure compliance with updated laws and practices.
Contention
Despite its benefits, SB306 has faced some contention, particularly concerning the increased regulatory burden on pharmacists and pharmacy technicians. Critics argue that the additional training and monitoring requirements might hinder access to medications for patients. Furthermore, the balancing act between ensuring public safety and avoiding excessive regulation creates a nuanced debate within legislative circles. Stakeholders are divided on whether the provisions within the bill will adequately address concerns surrounding pharmaceutical oversight without imposing significant operational challenges for providers.
Identical
Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas State Board of Pharmacy and the regulation of certain prescription drugs, prescription drug prescribers and dispensers, and colleges of pharmacy; authorizing a reduction in fees.
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 authorizing the possession, use, cultivation, distribution, delivery, sale, and research of medical cannabis for medical use by patients with certain medical conditions and the licensing of medical cannabis organizations; authorizing fees.
Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department and the functions of the office of independent ombudsman for the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.
Expands authority of pharmacy technician in administering drugs and vaccines and permits pharmacists and pharmacy interns, externs, and technicians to administer COVID-19 vaccine.
Expands authority of pharmacy technician in administering drugs and vaccines and permits pharmacists and pharmacy interns, externs, and technicians to administer COVID-19 vaccine.
Expands authority of pharmacy technician in administering drugs and vaccines and permits certain pharmacists and pharmacy interns, externs, and technicians to administer COVID-19 vaccine.
Expands authority of pharmacy technician in administering drugs and vaccines and permits certain pharmacists and pharmacy interns, externs, and technicians to administer COVID-19 vaccine.