SENATE BILL REPORT

HB 1486

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

As of March 9, 2011

Title: An act relating to authorizing Washington pharmacies to fill prescriptions written by advanced registered nurse practitioners in other states.

Brief Description: Authorizing Washington pharmacies to fill prescriptions written by advanced registered nurse practitioners in other states.

Sponsors: Representatives Green, Jinkins, Cody, Hinkle, Moeller, Bailey, Schmick, Clibborn, Kelley and Condotta.

Brief History: Passed House: 2/14/11, 92-1.

Committee Activity: Health & Long-Term Care: 3/09/11.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON HEALTH & LONG-TERM CARE

Staff: Kathleen Buchli (786-7488)

Background: It is unlawful to possess, deliver, or dispense a legend drug or controlled substance except pursuant to a prescription issued by health care professionals with prescriptive authority who are licensed in Washington; e.g., physicians, dentists, and advanced registered nurse practitioners. Additionally, Washington pharmacies may honor prescriptions written by the following professions from other states: physicians; osteopathic physicians and surgeons; dentists; podiatric physicians and surgeons; and veterinarians. In 2010 the Legislature added out-of-state advanced registered nurse practitioners to this list with respect to legend drugs, but not controlled substances.

Summary of Bill: Washington pharmacies may honor prescriptions written by out-of-state advanced registered nurse practitioners with respect to controlled substances.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.

Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.

Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: This bill makes a technical correction to a bill passed by the Legislature in 2010. That bill was intended to permit out-of-state advanced registered nurse practitioners to prescribe legend drugs and controlled substances but did not amend the correct area of law to include controlled substances in the prescriber authority. This is an access issue for people using out of state prescribers.

Persons Testifying: PRO: Tamara Warnke, Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioners United of Washington State.