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Bill

HB 1677

TO AUTHORIZE ALCOHOL AND DRUG ABUSE TREATMENT PROGRAMS TO MAINTAIN EMERGENCY MEDICATION KITS.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Mary Bentley and 3 co-sponsors

Act 637 allows Arkansas alcohol and drug treatment programs to maintain emergency medication kits, ensuring immediate care for patients in need of urgent interventions.

Notification that HB1677 is now Act 637
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Bill Summary · HB 1677

Summary of House Bill 1677 (Act 637)

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1677, now known as Act 637, was introduced to authorize alcohol and drug abuse treatment programs in Arkansas to maintain emergency medication kits. The intent of the bill is to ensure that these treatment facilities can provide immediate therapeutic interventions for patients in need, thereby improving patient care and safety.

Key Provisions

The bill amends Arkansas Code Title 20, Chapter 64, Subchapter 9, to include the following provisions:

  1. Definition of Emergency Medication Kit:

    • An "emergency medication kit" is defined as a kit containing medications necessary for immediate therapeutic needs that cannot be obtained in time from other sources.

  2. Eligibility for Maintenance:

    • Alcohol and drug abuse treatment programs, including detoxification facilities and substance abuse treatment centers, may maintain an emergency medication kit if they have a physician or qualified medical personnel on staff.

  3. Pharmacy Oversight:

    • Each treatment program must designate one licensed pharmacy to supply and oversee the emergency medication kit. This pharmacy must be registered with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and licensed by the Arkansas State Board of Pharmacy.

  4. Storage and Access:

    • The emergency medication kit must be stored in a locked container or cabinet, accessible only to licensed medical personnel.

  5. Administration of Medications:

    • Only licensed medical personnel may administer medications from the kit, acting under the orders of a physician or advanced practice registered nurse.

  6. Medication Replacement:

    • Medications administered from the kit must be replaced within 72 hours by the designated pharmacy based on a prescription for the patient.

  7. Regulatory Oversight:

    • The Arkansas State Board of Pharmacy is tasked with adopting rules regarding the contents, quantity, storage, security, and access of the emergency medication kits.

Affected Parties

  • Treatment Programs: Alcohol and drug abuse treatment programs, including detox facilities and substance abuse centers, will be directly impacted as they will now have the authority to maintain emergency medication kits.
  • Patients: Individuals receiving treatment for alcohol and drug abuse will benefit from the availability of immediate medical interventions.
  • Pharmacies: Licensed pharmacies will play a crucial role in supplying and overseeing these emergency kits.

Procedural Timeline

  • Introduced: March 4, 2025
  • Passed by House: April 1, 2025
  • Passed by Senate: April 10, 2025
  • Enacted as Act 637: April 16, 2025

Conclusion

House Bill 1677 (Act 637) represents a significant step in enhancing the capabilities of alcohol and drug abuse treatment programs in Arkansas. By allowing these facilities to maintain emergency medication kits, the legislation aims to improve patient outcomes through timely medical interventions.

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

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