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HD 2220

An Act to clarify prescription monitoring program activities

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Mindy Domb and 3 co-sponsors

Massachusetts clarifies prescription monitoring program scope, authority, and data-sharing rules to strengthen opioid prevention while defining privacy protections.

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Bill Summary · HD 2220

Legislative bill overview

HD 2220 clarifies the legal scope and operational parameters of Massachusetts' Prescription Monitoring Program (PMP), which tracks controlled substance prescriptions to prevent drug abuse and diversion. The bill defines what activities PMPs can undertake, how data can be used, and likely establishes clearer protocols for healthcare providers and law enforcement accessing prescription records.

Why is this important

PMPs are critical tools for combating opioid misuse and prescription drug diversion, but their authority and data-sharing practices have faced legal challenges nationwide regarding privacy and scope. Clarifying these rules protects both patient privacy rights and the program's effectiveness in identifying potentially dangerous prescribing or "doctor shopping" patterns that indicate addiction or trafficking.

Potential points of contention

  • Privacy vs. enforcement: How much prescription data can be shared with law enforcement, employers, or other entities without patient consent, and whether this creates surveillance concerns
  • Access standards: Whether the bill adequately restricts who can query the PMP database and for what purposes, or if it enables overly broad access by non-medical personnel
  • Data security requirements: Whether the clarifications include sufficient safeguards for protecting sensitive patient health information from breaches or misuse

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

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