Brief Description: Requiring the disclosure of gifts made by pharmaceutical manufacturers to persons who prescribe prescription drugs.

Sponsors: Representatives Clibborn, Campbell, Ruderman, Wallace, Moeller, Conway, McIntire, Benson, Sullivan, Kenney, Kessler, Schual-Berke, Kagi and Upthegrove; by request of Insurance Commissioner.

Hearing Date: 2/5/03

Staff: Dave Knutson (786-7146).

Background:

Pharmaceutical manufacturers are not currently required to disclose or report gifts, grants, and gratuities provided to individuals and organizations who are authorized to prescribe, dispense, or purchase prescription drugs.

Summary of Bill:

Pharmaceutical manufacturers are required to disclose to the Board of Pharmacy annually the value, nature, and purpose of gifts, fees, or payments made to any person or entity licensed under Title 18 RCW who is authorized to prescribe or dispense prescription drugs. The reporting requirement includes hospitals, health benefit plan administrators, group purchasing organizations or pharmacy benefit managers, and other entities authorized to purchase prescription drugs in Washington. Free samples of prescription drugs intended for patients and gifts or items valued at less than $25 are exempt from the disclosure requirement. Every violation of the disclosure requirement is subject to a $10,000 fine.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not Requested.

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