Bill > HB2182

This bill establishes a new provision allowing the commissioner of state health services to issue a statewide order enabling licensed pharmacists to dispense emergency contraceptives without a prescription. The bill defines emergency contraceptives as drugs approved by the FDA for preventing pregnancy after sexual intercourse, which can be obtained over-the-counter or by prescription. The statewide order must include standardized written procedures for pharmacists to follow and require pharmacists to provide patients with usage instructions. Pharmacists who dispense emergency contraceptives in good faith are protected from criminal, civil, and professional liability, except in cases of willful misconduct or gross negligence. Pharmacists will be required to submit an annual written report detailing the number of emergency contraceptives dispensed. The executive commissioner and the Texas State Board of Pharmacy are authorized to adopt rules implementing this section. The bill will take effect immediately if it receives a two-thirds vote in both legislative houses, otherwise it will take effect on September 1, 2025.

Health and Social Services

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2182