Raised Bill No. 5149 Summary

• Restricts public disclosure of pharmacy inspection information to protect individual and institutional privacy, except in licensure proceedings or formal disciplinary actions related to medication dispensing errors.

• Eliminates the requirement that flavoring agents in food or drugs meet United States Pharmacopeia standards, while maintaining safety requirements for ingredients and limiting flavoring agents to no more than 5% of product weight.

• Permits long-term care pharmacies registered as nonresident pharmacies to operate automated prescription dispensing machines in nursing homes with Department of Consumer Protection approval for an annual fee of $100 per machine.

• Allows drug wholesalers to electronically order Schedule II controlled substances through the Drug Enforcement Agency's Controlled Substance Ordering System instead of requiring only written orders, and eliminates the requirement for triplicating official orders.

• Authorizes hospital pharmacies and registrants to transfer or distribute controlled drugs and medical devices during declared emergencies with prior Commissioner of Consumer Protection approval, subject to federal regulations and proper record-keeping.