Bill > S05260

This bill amends the public health law to require healthcare practitioners to take specific steps before prescribing a Schedule II opioid, which are powerful pain medications with a high potential for addiction and abuse. Specifically, the practitioner must: (1) discuss with the patient the proposed quantity of the opioid and inform them they have the option to fill the prescription in a smaller amount, (2) explain the risks of opiate addiction to the patient, and (3) document the specific reason for prescribing the opioid in the patient's medical record. These requirements aim to promote more informed patient decision-making, reduce potential over-prescription, and create a clearer medical record of the prescription's medical necessity. The bill will take effect 90 days after becoming law, with provisions allowing regulators to prepare implementation rules in advance of the effective date.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S5260