H.B. No. 5248 establishes a pilot program for the safe disposal of prescription drugs, including controlled substances, in Texas. The bill amends various sections of the Health and Safety Code to define key terms such as "collection receptacle," "commission," and "department," while removing references to the Texas State Board of Pharmacy. The executive commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission is tasked with developing and implementing the program, which aims to increase the number of collection receptacles for unused, unwanted, or expired prescription drugs across the state. The bill also outlines eligibility criteria for pharmacies wishing to participate in the program and emphasizes the importance of community outreach and education regarding safe disposal practices.

Additionally, the bill specifies that participating pharmacies will be responsible for managing their disposal programs and maintaining records in accordance with federal regulations. The Department of State Health Services will provide financial support for the program, including costs associated with maintaining collection receptacles and incinerating collected drugs. The bill mandates that the department submit a report every two years summarizing the program's results and making recommendations for its future. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Health and Safety Code 1317.40 (Health and Safety Code 1317)
House Committee Report: Health and Safety Code 1317.40 (Health and Safety Code 1317)