The bill amends sections 4723.4812 and 4729.284 of the Revised Code and enacts section 4729.286, focusing on the regulations for pharmacist dispensing of nicotine replacement therapy and oral contraceptive therapy. It establishes a statewide protocol by the State Board of Pharmacy, allowing pharmacists to dispense these therapies without a prescription to individuals aged eighteen and older. Pharmacists are required to complete accredited courses on both therapies and adhere to the new protocols. The bill also updates the definition of nicotine replacement therapy to include drugs approved for aiding in tobacco cessation and outlines the procedures for the establishment and review of the statewide protocols, ensuring collaboration with the State Medical Board.

Additionally, the bill introduces new procedures for creating and maintaining the statewide protocol, including a review process by the State Medical Board and a requirement for the pharmacy board to inform licensed individuals of finalized protocols. It mandates a biennial review of the established protocol and includes a liability clause protecting both boards from civil damages related to the protocol, except in cases of willful misconduct. The bill clarifies that pharmacists are not authorized to dispense abortifacients and repeals existing sections 4723.4812, 4729.284, and 4731.90 of the Revised Code to streamline the regulations.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 4723.4812, 4729.284, 4731.90