Senate Bill No. 483, introduced by Senator Reese, amends the structure and membership qualifications of the Louisiana Board of Pharmacy. The bill reduces the number of pharmacist members from sixteen to eight, with one pharmacist elected from each of the eight pharmacy districts. Additionally, it establishes eight licensed healthcare professional members, including three compounding pharmacists, one chain pharmacy pharmacist, one hospital pharmacist, one independent community pharmacy pharmacist, and two licensed healthcare professionals with prescriptive authority representing specific districts. The bill also mandates that the governor ensure diversity in appointments and introduces term limits for board members, allowing them to serve no more than two consecutive full terms.

The bill outlines a new process for filling vacancies on the board, allowing the governor to appoint replacements for the consumer representative and licensed healthcare professionals without following the standard nomination process. It also specifies that all current board members will be removed from office by June 30, 2026, and new appointments must be made by July 1, 2026, in accordance with the new qualifications. The changes will take effect upon the governor's signature or after the designated time for gubernatorial action.

Statutes affected:
SB483 Original: 37:1174(A), 37:1175(B)
SB483 Engrossed: 37:1174(A), 37:1175(B)