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S 4253

Establishes duties for pharmacies when pharmacists employed by such pharmacy refuse to fill prescriptions on the basis of personal beliefs

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Kevin Parker

Bill S 4253 ensures patients can access medications by requiring pharmacies to notify them of pharmacists' refusals and provide alternative options.

REFERRED TO HIGHER EDUCATION
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Bill Summary · S 4253

Summary of Bill S 4253

Title: Establishes duties for pharmacies when pharmacists employed by such pharmacy refuse to fill prescriptions on the basis of personal beliefs

Bill Number: S 4253
Introduced: February 03, 2025
Status: Referred to Higher Education
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill S 4253 aims to address the responsibilities of pharmacies in situations where pharmacists refuse to fill prescriptions due to personal beliefs. The legislation seeks to ensure that patients have access to necessary medications, regardless of the personal convictions of individual pharmacists.

Key Provisions

The bill outlines specific duties for pharmacies, including:

  • Patient Notification: Pharmacies must inform patients if a pharmacist refuses to fill a prescription based on personal beliefs.
  • Referral Requirements: Pharmacies are required to provide patients with information on alternative pharmacists or nearby pharmacies that can fulfill the prescription.
  • Training and Policies: Pharmacies must implement training for staff on how to handle situations involving prescription refusals and develop clear policies to ensure compliance with the law.

Affected Parties

  • Pharmacies: All pharmacies operating within the jurisdiction of the bill will need to adapt their policies and procedures to comply with the new requirements.
  • Pharmacists: Pharmacists who refuse to fill prescriptions on personal belief grounds will be subject to the new referral and notification requirements.
  • Patients: The primary beneficiaries of this bill will be patients who may face barriers in accessing their prescribed medications due to a pharmacist's personal beliefs.

Procedural Aspects

  • Current Status: As of February 3, 2025, the bill has been referred to the Higher Education committee for further consideration.
  • Related Legislation: This bill is part of a broader legislative context, with several related bills from prior sessions (S 556, S 1336, S 1285, S 1521, S 2317, S 3750, S 4814, S 5206, S 6384) that may address similar issues regarding pharmacy practices and patient rights.
  • Companion Bill: There is a companion bill, A 7230, which may provide additional context or support for the provisions outlined in S 4253.

Conclusion

Bill S 4253 represents a significant step towards ensuring that patients have uninterrupted access to their medications, regardless of the personal beliefs of pharmacists. By establishing clear duties for pharmacies, the bill aims to create a more equitable healthcare environment for all patients. Further discussions and evaluations will take place as the bill moves through the legislative process.

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

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