HB 1194 - DIGEST

(AS OF HOUSE 2ND READING 2/16/05)

Requires each agency administering a state purchased health care program as defined in RCW 41.05.011(2) to, in cooperation with other agencies, take any actions needed to: (1) Undertake bulk purchasing of drugs approved by the federal food and drug administration from Canadian pharmacies and wholesalers, upon approval of a waiver by the federal food and drug administration or upon passage of federal legislation authorizing bulk reimportation of prescription drugs;

(2) Facilitate personal importation of drugs approved by the food and drug administration from Canadian pharmacies for individuals participating in state purchased health care programs.

Directs the health care authority to develop an internet web site and use the pharmacy connection program established under RCW 41.05.520 to provide information to Washington residents regarding opportunities to purchase prescription drugs from Canada and the best means to ensure that any prescription drugs they purchase have been safely manufactured, distributed, and stored. The attorney general shall review the web site and the information provided through the pharmacy connection program and certify that they do not violate any applicable state or federal law.