SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5319

BYSenators West, McMullen, Smitherman, DeJarnatt, Benitz, Fleming and Niemi

Prohibiting the use of drugs or autotransfusions by physicians to enhance an athlete's abilities.

Senate Committee on Health Care & Corrections

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 9, 1989; February 17, 1989

Majority Report:  That Substitute Senate Bill No. 5319 be substituted therefor, and the substitute bill do pass.

      Signed by Senators Smith, Vice Chairman; Amondson, Kreidler, Niemi.

Senate Staff:Scott Plack (786-7409)

                  February 17, 1989

AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON HEALTH CARE & CORRECTIONS, FEBRUARY 16, 1989

BACKGROUND:

The use of anabolic steroids and other legend drugs to improve physical performance in athletic competition is increasing.  Many of them have adverse side effects and can result in death when misused.  The use of such drugs also raises ethical questions concerning whether drugs should be prescribed or used in athletic competition.  The Medical and Osteopathic Disciplinary Board have rules making it a violation of the Uniform Disciplinary Act to prescribe such drugs for use in athletic competition to enhance performance.

SUMMARY:

Physicians licensed under 18.57 and 18.71 RCW are prohibited from prescribing, dispensing or administering anabolic steroids, growth hormones, testosterone and any form of autotransfusion for the purpose of enhancing athletic competition.  Physicians must maintain patient records when prescribing, administering or dispensing these drugs for medical purposes.  A violation of the prohibition is subject to discipline under the Uniform Disciplinary Act and subject to criminal prosecution as a gross misdemeanor.

EFFECT OF PROPOSED SUBSTITUTES:

The prohibitions against prescribing steroids are expanded to all practitioners authorized to prescribe legend drugs.

The use of steroids to increase muscle mass, strength, or weight is prohibited without a medical necessity.

The Pharmacy Board is directed to define steroid drugs in rule.

Prohibitions for possession of steroids without a prescription are increased.  Possession of under 200 tablets is a gross misdemeanor.  Possession of over 200 tablets is a class C felony.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      available

Senate Committee - Testified: Dr. Bill Sheyer, Washington State Medical Association; Bonnie Owen, Board of Pharmacy