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Bill

SB 1263

Relating to a pilot program for the safe disposal of prescription drugs, including controlled substance prescription drugs.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Carol Alvarado and 3 co-sponsors

Texas establishes prescription drug disposal pilot program to safely eliminate unused medications and reduce controlled substance misuse through accessible collection points.

Placed on General State Calendar
#alcoholism&drugabuse(i0030) #environmentalquality #texascommissionon(v0334) #health&humanservicescommission(v0177) #health--general(i0385) #medicine&prescriptiondrugs(s7338) #pharmacies&pharmacists(s1192) #pharmacy #texasstateboardof(v0022) #statehealthservices #departmentof(v0463)
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Bill Summary · SB 1263

Legislative bill overview

SB 1263 establishes a pilot program in Texas to create safe, accessible disposal methods for prescription drugs, including controlled substances. The bill aims to reduce prescription drug misuse, environmental contamination, and improper disposal practices by providing legitimate channels for residents to safely discard unused or expired medications.

Why is this important

Prescription drug misuse is a significant public health crisis, with improper disposal contributing to both environmental pollution (drugs in water supplies) and increased availability for abuse. A structured disposal program can reduce overdose deaths, diversion of controlled substances, and pharmaceutical waste in landfills and waterways, while improving public safety and environmental protection.

Potential points of contention

  • Controlled substance handling: Managing the destruction of Schedule II-V drugs requires strict DEA compliance and security protocols, raising questions about program costs and liability
  • Funding and sustainability: Who bears implementation costs (state, participating pharmacies, healthcare providers) and whether the pilot is adequately funded
  • Privacy concerns: Whether participant information is protected when disposing of medications, particularly controlled substances that may reveal health conditions
  • Geographic equity: Whether the pilot program will serve rural and urban areas equally, or concentrate services in populated regions

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

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