Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Health Care & Wellness Committee

HB 2688

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Brief Description: Concerning nonresident pharmacies.

Sponsors: Representatives Slatter, DeBolt, Cody and Jinkins; by request of Department of Health.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Requires nonresident pharmacies to submit to the Department of Health copies of inspection reports conducted by inspection programs approved by the Pharmacy Quality Assurance Committee.

Hearing Date: 1/23/18

Staff: Chris Blake (786-7392).

Background:

Nonresident pharmacies are pharmacies that are located outside Washington that ship, mail, or deliver prescription drugs, including both controlled substances and legend drugs, or devices into the state. Nonresident pharmacies must be licensed by the Department of Health (Department) and must disclose to the Department:

Nonresident pharmacies must renew their licenses annually. Upon request of the Department, a nonresident pharmacy must provide information, through submission or inspection of records, about the controlled substances shipped, mailed, or delivered to Washington residents.

Summary of Bill:

The requirement that a nonresident pharmacy submit to the Department of Health a copy of the most recent inspection report from the state or Canadian province with which it is licensed is removed. Instead, the nonresident pharmacy must submit a copy of an inspection report conducted by an inspection program approved by the Pharmacy Quality Assurance Commission. The report must have been issued within two years of application or renewal of a license.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.