HB 1168-S2 - DIGEST

(DIGEST AS ENACTED)

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 reciprocal 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.

Provides that, by September 1, 2005, the board of pharmacy shall, in consultation with the department and the health care authority, submit a waiver request to the federal food and drug administration that authorizes the importation of prescription drugs from Canada.

Provides that, upon approval of the federal waiver allowing for the importation of prescription drugs from Canada, the board, in consultation with the department and the health care authority, shall license Canadian pharmacies that provide services to Washington residents under RCW 18.64.350 and RCW 18.64.360.