The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 151.555, to enhance the procedures for the medication repository program, which facilitates the donation and distribution of unused medications and medical supplies. Key changes include the introduction of a provision allowing the central repository to purchase drugs from licensed wholesalers when there is an insufficient supply of donated drugs to fill prescriptions. Additionally, the bill specifies that local repositories must now only transfer suitable donated drugs and supplies to the central repository, and they are required to dispose of any drugs and supplies that are not suitable for donation or dispensing.

Furthermore, the bill appropriates $900,000 for the fiscal years 2026 and 2027 from the general fund to the Board of Pharmacy to support the medication repository program, with a base appropriation of $900,000 for the following two fiscal years. This funding aims to ensure the effective operation of the program, which is designed to improve access to medications for eligible patients while promoting the safe and responsible use of surplus medical resources.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 151.555