HB 1168-S - DIGEST

(SUBSTITUTED FOR - SEE 2ND SUB)

Finds that as consumers' prescription drug costs continue to rise, people across the state of Washington are exercising the option to purchase prescription drugs from Canada for their personal use. The state has a strong interest in the safety of drugs purchased through this mechanism. To address this interest, the legislature intends to authorize the state board of pharmacy to regulate nonresident Canadian pharmacies.

Directs the board to attempt to develop a licensing agreement for licensure of nonresident pharmacies with Health Canada or an applicable Canadian province. If the board is unable to develop such an agreement, the board shall develop a process to license participating Canadian nonresident pharmacies through on-site inspection and certification.