WeVote

Bill

Bill

SB 94

An Act relating to the Board of Pharmacy; relating to the practice of pharmacy; relating to pharmacies; relating to prescription drug manufacturers; relating to prescriptions for epinephrine; relating to the administration of epinephrine; and providing for an effective date.

33rd Legislature (2023-2024) Introduced by Forrest Dunbar and 4 co-sponsors

SB 94 expands pharmacist authority to dispense and administer epinephrine, strengthens pharmacy board oversight, and modifies drug manufacturer regulations in Alaska.

(S) COSPONSOR(S): MERRICK
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 94

Legislative bill overview

SB 94 modifies Alaska's pharmacy regulations and practices, with particular focus on epinephrine access and administration. The bill addresses Board of Pharmacy oversight, prescription drug manufacturer regulations, and expands authority for epinephrine distribution and use outside traditional prescriber-patient relationships.

Why this is important

Epinephrine auto-injectors are critical emergency medications for severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), and expanding access points—such as allowing pharmacists to dispense without prescriptions or enabling broader administration by trained individuals—can reduce response time in life-threatening situations. Changes to pharmacy board regulations and drug manufacturer oversight affect medication availability, costs, and professional licensing standards across Alaska.

Potential points of contention

  • Epinephrine access expansion: While improving emergency response capability, broadening epinephrine availability without traditional prescriptions raises questions about appropriate use, liability, training requirements, and whether pharmacists have adequate authority
  • Pharmacy board authority: Expanded Board of Pharmacy powers could affect how pharmacists operate and may create regulatory friction with other healthcare providers or prescription authorities
  • Manufacturer regulations: Changes affecting prescription drug manufacturers could influence medication pricing, supply chains, and market competition, with unclear trade-offs between consumer access and industry practices

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.