Assembly Bill 127 seeks to amend existing laws regarding the duty of pharmacies to dispense lawfully prescribed drugs and devices. The bill expands the current requirement, which previously focused on contraceptive drugs and devices, to include any lawfully prescribed drug or device. It stipulates that pharmacies must dispense these prescriptions without delay unless there is an absolute contraindication, defined as any condition that makes the drug or device unsafe under any circumstances. Additionally, if a pharmacist refuses to dispense a prescription due to personal conscience, the pharmacy is required to transfer the prescription to another pharmacy that will fulfill it without delay.

The bill also introduces protections for pharmacies and pharmacists by prohibiting pharmacy benefit managers from penalizing them for dispensing drugs or devices for off-label uses, as long as they are dispensed according to a valid prescription order. Key amendments include the repeal of specific references to contraceptives, the introduction of new definitions, and the clarification of conditions under which a pharmacy may refuse to dispense a prescription. Overall, the bill aims to ensure timely access to prescribed medications while addressing the rights of pharmacists and the responsibilities of pharmacies.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 50.36(6), 50.36, 450.095(title), 450.095, 450.095(1)(a), 450.095(2)(intro.), 450.095(2)(a), 450.095(2)(b), 450.095(2)(c)