SB 17-146: Access To The Electronic Prescription Drug Monitoring Program

• Grants veterinarians with statutory authority to prescribe controlled substances access to the electronic prescription drug monitoring program when querying relates to a current patient or client and the veterinarian has reasonable basis to suspect drug abuse or animal mistreatment.

• Expands pharmacist access to include queries about patients to whom they are currently providing clinical patient care services, in addition to patients receiving controlled substances or prescription drugs.

• Defines terms used for veterinary access including "client," "mistreat," and "patient" by cross-reference to existing Colorado statutes.

• Applies to all queries to the electronic prescription drug monitoring program occurring on or after the bill's effective date.

• Declares the act necessary for immediate preservation of public peace, health, and safety.