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HB 1426

Clinical Research Pharmacies and Clinical Trials - Permits and Ownership

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Heather Bagnall Tudball and 15 co-sponsors

Maryland bill permits clinical research pharmacies to operate within clinical trials while clarifying practice boundaries to avoid violations of state medical practice regulations.

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Bill Summary · HB 1426

Legislative bill overview

HB 1426 establishes regulatory frameworks for clinical research pharmacies operating within clinical trial settings in Maryland. The bill defines the scope of practice for these specialized pharmacies, clarifies permitting requirements, and addresses ownership structures to enable participation in federally-regulated clinical research without violating state medical practice laws.

Why is this important

Clinical trials are essential for developing new medications and treatments, but unclear state regulations can discourage participation and slow research. By explicitly permitting clinical research pharmacies to operate within defined parameters, Maryland can facilitate access to experimental treatments while protecting patient safety through clear oversight mechanisms.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope creep concerns: Defining "clinical research pharmacy" practice may inadvertently allow expanded activities beyond trial-specific needs or create ambiguity about what constitutes permissible clinical research activities versus prohibited medical practice
  • Ownership structure implications: Allowing certain ownership models for research pharmacies could conflict with existing healthcare professional regulations or create conflicts of interest if research sponsors have direct pharmacy ownership
  • Regulatory oversight gaps: The bill may not adequately specify which state agency oversees clinical research pharmacies, enforcement mechanisms, or how adverse events are reported and investigated

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

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