House Bill No. 7179, also known as Public Act No. 25-171, introduces significant changes to the regulation of pharmaceutical marketing and the dispensing of veterinary drugs. The bill requires pharmaceutical manufacturers with representatives to register annually as pharmaceutical marketing firms, with a registration fee of $150 and a late fee of $100 for late renewals. These firms must provide a list of their representatives to the Department of Public Health, which will maintain a public list of representatives while protecting their home addresses. Additionally, the bill allows licensed veterinarians to authorize individuals to dispense prescription veterinary drugs under their supervision and empowers the Commissioner of Public Health to adopt regulations for implementation. It also updates the sale regulations for nonlegend drugs, permitting their sale in vending machines under strict maintenance and labeling requirements.

Moreover, the bill modifies the distribution of nonlegend naloxone, stating that individuals distributing it through secure boxes without compensation do not need a permit, provided the boxes meet specific criteria. It streamlines the permit application process for selling nonlegend drugs, allowing fee waivers for those distributing without compensation. The bill also clarifies the definition of "secure boxes" for opioid antagonists and outlines the responsibilities of prescribing practitioners and pharmacists regarding their distribution and administration. Additionally, it allows certified practitioners and pharmacists to operate vending machines for opioid antagonists, ensuring they are maintained at appropriate temperatures and include necessary information on overdose signs and treatment resources. The bill provides liability protections for practitioners involved in these agreements and grants the Commissioner of Consumer Protection the authority to adopt relevant regulations.

Statutes affected:
Public Act No. 25-171: 20-623, 20-624