HB47 Summary

• Expands controlled substance distribution requirements to apply to Schedules II, III, IV, and V (previously only Schedule V), requiring all distributions or dispensing be for a legitimate medical purpose pursuant to a practitioner's prescription.

• Amends the crime of unlawful distribution by licensed persons to require the person act "knowingly or intentionally" when distributing or dispensing controlled substances in violation of law, establishing this as a Class B felony.

• Maintains existing pharmacy record-keeping and prescription requirements, including facsimile transmission procedures for Schedule II narcotics for home infusion and long-term care facilities.

• Clarifies that controlled substance prescriptions must be issued by practitioners acting in the usual course of their professional practice and establishes a 72-hour limit for emergency oral prescriptions.

• Becomes effective immediately upon passage and approval by the Governor, with exemption from Amendment 621 requirements because it defines or amends the definition of a crime.