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Bill Summary · HB 951

Summary of HB 951: Relating to Prescription Drugs

Bill Number: HB 951
Status: Act 065, effective May 16, 2025
Introduced: January 21, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject Areas: Health Care Providers, Opiates, Physicians, Prescriptions, Prescriptive Authority, Telehealth, Three-day Supply

Purpose and Intent

HB 951 aims to enhance the management of prescription drugs, particularly focusing on opiates, by allowing greater flexibility in prescribing practices. The bill seeks to address the ongoing concerns related to opioid prescriptions and the accessibility of necessary medications through telehealth services.

Key Provisions

  • Prescriptive Authority: The bill expands the prescriptive authority of healthcare providers, particularly in the context of telehealth, enabling them to prescribe a three-day supply of certain medications, including opiates, without requiring an in-person visit.

  • Telehealth Integration: By facilitating prescriptions via telehealth, the bill aims to improve access to care for patients who may have difficulty visiting healthcare facilities.

  • Regulatory Compliance: The legislation includes provisions to ensure that healthcare providers adhere to best practices and regulatory standards when prescribing medications, particularly controlled substances.

Impact

  • Healthcare Providers: Physicians and other healthcare providers will benefit from increased flexibility in prescribing medications, particularly in urgent situations where in-person consultations are not feasible.

  • Patients: The bill is expected to improve patient access to necessary medications, especially for those in remote areas or with mobility challenges. It aims to reduce barriers to obtaining prescriptions for pain management and other medical needs.

  • Public Health: By addressing the opioid crisis through regulated prescribing practices, the bill aims to mitigate the risks associated with opioid misuse while ensuring that patients have access to essential medications.

Procedural Timeline

  • January 21, 2025: Bill introduced and passed first reading.
  • February 2025: The bill underwent multiple committee reviews and amendments, including recommendations from the Health (HLT) and Consumer Protection & Commerce (CPC) committees.
  • April 2025: The bill passed through the House and Senate with amendments and was transmitted to the Governor.
  • May 16, 2025: The bill was signed into law as Act 065.

Related Legislation

  • SB 956: This bill serves as a companion to HB 951, addressing similar issues related to prescription drugs and telehealth.

This summary provides an overview of HB 951, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, and potential impacts on healthcare providers and patients. The bill represents a significant step in modernizing prescription practices and improving access to necessary medications in the context of evolving healthcare delivery methods.

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

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