Bill > S04253

This bill establishes new legal requirements for pharmacies when a pharmacist refuses to fill a prescription based on personal beliefs. The bill affirms both religious freedom and the right to access legal prescriptions, creating a framework that ensures patients can still obtain their medications. Specifically, if a pharmacist refuses to fill a valid prescription due to personal beliefs, the pharmacy must ensure another pharmacist fills the prescription without delay. If a product is not in stock, the pharmacy must immediately inform the patient that the item can be ordered and, with the patient's consent, have another pharmacist order it promptly. The bill prohibits pharmacies from employing pharmacists who intentionally obstruct prescription fulfillment, including actions like refusing to return a prescription form, refusing to transfer prescription information, harassing patients, or breaching medical confidentiality. Pharmacies that violate these provisions can be subject to civil penalties up to $5,000 per day, with a maximum of $500,000 for violations adjudicated in a single proceeding. Patients who are aggrieved by a violation can file a civil action to seek damages, injunctive relief, and attorneys' fees. The bill will take effect 180 days after becoming law, providing pharmacies time to adapt to the new requirements.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S4253