Bill > AB50

This bill modifies existing California pharmacy laws to expand pharmacists' abilities to provide contraceptives. Specifically, the bill allows pharmacists to furnish over-the-counter contraceptives without following the detailed standardized procedures currently required for prescription-only hormonal contraceptives. Pharmacists can now provide up to a 12-month supply of over-the-counter contraceptives at a patient's request, similar to the existing rules for prescription hormonal contraceptives. The bill also clarifies that for prescription-only hormonal contraceptives, pharmacists must continue to follow existing protocols, which include using a self-screening tool to identify patient risk factors and providing a standardized information sheet about the medication. The legislation aims to improve access to contraception by reducing barriers to obtaining these medications, with an urgent implementation to ensure quick and equitable access to birth control for all Californians. The bill amends several sections of the Business and Professions Code to accomplish these changes and is designed to take effect immediately due to its urgency status.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry, Health and Social Services

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260AB50