CS for CS for SB 1604 Summary

• Authorizes academic medical research institutions affiliated with licensed children's specialty hospitals to conduct research on cannabidiol and low-THC cannabis for treating refractory or intractable epilepsy if contracted with the Department of Health.

• Replaces the "pedigree paper" requirement system with "transaction history, transaction information, or transaction statement" requirements for prescription drug distribution, removing related criminal penalties and authentication provisions.

• Establishes virtual prescription drug manufacturer permits for entities that manufacture drugs without taking physical possession; authorizes nonresident prescription drug repackager permits; and eliminates surety bond requirements for wholesale distributors in favor of tiered bonding based on annual gross receipts.

• Permits quadrennial (4-year) renewal of permits with annualized fee calculations; allows permittees to continue operations while renewal applications are pending; and extends recordkeeping requirements to active pharmaceutical ingredients and over-the-counter drugs.

• Creates the "Victoria Siegel Controlled Substances Safety Education and Awareness Act" requiring the Department of Health to develop educational materials about controlled substance risks, proper storage and disposal, and addiction resources.