Colorado Legislative Council Staff

NO FISCAL IMPACT


Drafting Number:

Prime Sponsor(s):

LLS 98-558

Rep. Morrison

Date:

Bill Status:

Fiscal Analyst:

February 3, 1998

House HEWI

Will Meyer (866-4976)

 

TITLE:            CONCERNING THE AUTHORITY OF PHARMACISTS TO DISPENSE PRESCRIPTIONS RECEIVED VIA FACSIMILE TRANSMISSION FOR SCHEDULE II CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES.



Summary of Assessment


            The bill allows a prescription to be transmitted by a practitioner to the dispensing pharmacy by facsimile transmission. The bill would become effective upon signature of the Governor.


            Current Practice. Federal Drug Enforcement Authority (DEA) regulations allow a prescription to be transmitted to a dispensing pharmacy by facsimile transmission in certain care settings. The Department of Regulatory Agencies indicates that at present, pharmacists may unknowingly dispense a prescription from a facsimile transmission which would be contrary to state law but allowable under federal regulations. HB 98-1245 conforms state law with federal DEA regulations. It is anticipated that the bill will reduce confusion for physicians and pharmacists, and result in better compliance with both federal and state law.


            The provisions of this bill would not affect any agency of the state, or unit of local government. Therefore, this bill is assessed as having no fiscal impact.



Departments Contacted


            Regulatory Agencies

            Public Health and Environment