Legislative update: 2019 week 4

While we may have had a slow start, in week four, legislative session was in full swing with bills continuing to be introduced and bills previously introduced beginning to make their way through the legislative process. Through it all, GPhA continues to be at the capitol daily, advocating for pro-pharmacy, pro-patient legislation and engaging with legislators on the finer points of several pieces of legislation.

Of special note, this week saw our first Day at the Dome event with students from UGA and PCOM storming the Capitol and engaging legislators on the practice of PBM patient steering. The 280 students were visited by notable friends of pharmacy, U.S. Representative Buddy Carter and Georgia State Representative Ron Stephens. We knew the day was a success when legislators reached out to GPhA to find out more about these egregious practices. Well done!

Finally, thank you to our members that picked up the phone and engaged their legislators this week. You were heard and it made a huge difference. Our first bill seeking to prohibit PBM and insurer owned pharmacies from filling prescriptions that were received via prohibited referrals will be introduced in week five and the support we have received is unprecedented. Indeed, As of print, the bill has over 90 cosponsors in the House which will send a huge message to those who will seek to oppose this legislation.

Legislation introduced in week 4

HB 112: Prohibit dextromethorphan sales to minors

Introduced by Representative LaHood, this bill looks to prohibit the sale of over the counter drug products containing dextromethorphan to minors under the age of 18.

Pharmacists at the Capitol

For our pharmacist members, our Pharmacists at the Capitol events are an opportunity to get involved and be heard. With our anti-steering legislation set to hit the House floor, we need pharmacists at the Capitol now more than ever. The stakes couldn’t be higher.

Please signup today for one of our Pharmacists at the Capitol events by going to GPhA.org/atthecapitol.

Be on the lookout for more dates to be scheduled soon.