AB 2548 Summary

• Establishes the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP) under the Department of Justice to monitor practitioners and pharmacists accessing electronic controlled substance dispensing history through the CURES system for Schedule II, III, and IV drugs.

• Requires PDMP subscribers to submit a notarized application to the Department of Justice for internet access to patient controlled substance histories, with grounds for denial or suspension including falsifying applications, failing to maintain access controls, DEA registration suspension/revocation, and accessing information outside of patient care.

• Authorizes the Department of Justice to issue citations to PDMP subscribers for violations, which may include orders of abatement or administrative fines up to $2,500 per violation, with provisions for informal conferences and formal hearings.

• Mandates that PDMP subscribers report any theft or loss of prescription information or forms to the CURES program within 3 days of discovery, using a department-approved form or electronic method.

• Specifies that no state reimbursement is required for local agencies since the bill creates a new crime, falling within exemptions under Article XIII B of the California Constitution.