HB232 Summary

• Amends Sections 20-2-58 and 20-2-71 of the Code of Alabama 1975 to regulate controlled substance distribution and dispensing by licensed practitioners and pharmacists.

• Requires violations of controlled substance distribution laws to be proven exclusively through expert testimony from a similarly situated health care practitioner licensed by the appropriate regulatory board, practicing in the same specialty during the year preceding the violation, with relevant training, experience, and applicable certifications.

• Imposes an additional mandatory fine of $50,000 for violations of unlawful distribution or dispensing of controlled substances, separate from other penalties.

• Establishes the Office of Prosecution Services Expert Witness Fund through collected fines, with distributions authorized by the Alabama District Attorneys Association and the Office of Prosecution Services to support expert witness fees and trial expenses.

• Became effective immediately upon passage and approval, with the bill passing the House 97-2 on March 13, 2018.