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Bill

HB 2694

Enacting the opioid patients right to know act to require the disclosure of the risks associated with prescribed opioid use.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Alexis Simmons

Kansas bill requiring physicians to disclose opioid addiction and overdose risks to patients before prescription to promote informed consent and reduce misuse.

Died in Committee
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Bill Summary · HB 2694

Legislative bill overview

HB 2694 would require healthcare providers in Kansas to disclose opioid-related risks to patients before prescribing these medications. The bill aims to ensure patients have explicit information about potential dangers associated with opioid use, including addiction, overdose, and other adverse effects.

Why is this important

Opioid misuse remains a significant public health crisis, with thousands of deaths annually from overdose. Informed consent through risk disclosure can help patients make educated decisions about pain management and may reduce inappropriate opioid initiation or continuation. This addresses a gap where patients sometimes receive limited information about non-opioid alternatives or addiction risks before starting treatment.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation burden: Healthcare providers may face administrative costs and workflow changes to document patient disclosure conversations, potentially affecting smaller practices differently than large hospital systems
  • Standardization questions: The bill doesn't specify what "disclosure" entails—whether standardized forms, verbal counseling, or written materials are required, creating potential inconsistency and compliance challenges
  • Risk vs. benefit balance: Overstating opioid risks without discussing legitimate pain management needs could deter appropriate prescribing for patients with severe or cancer pain who would benefit from opioids

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

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