The bill amends Section 157.0511(b-1) of the Occupations Code to expand the circumstances under which a physician can delegate the prescribing or ordering of Schedule II controlled substances. Specifically, it allows for such delegation not only in hospital settings and for patients with terminal illnesses receiving hospice care but also as part of a narcotic drug treatment program that has been issued a permit under Chapter 466 of the Health and Safety Code. This addition aims to enhance the ability of advanced practice registered nurses and physician assistants to manage patient care in narcotic treatment settings.

The bill also removes the previous provision that allowed delegation only in hospital facilities or for hospice patients, thereby broadening the scope of practice for healthcare providers involved in narcotic drug treatment programs. The legislation is set to take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses of the Texas Legislature, or on September 1, 2025, if such a vote is not achieved.

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