Bill > A06758

This bill amends the New York State Education Law to establish clear guidelines for pharmacies and pharmacists regarding the dispensing of prescription and non-prescription drugs or devices when an employee has ethical, moral, or religious objections. The bill requires pharmacies to ensure that patients can still receive their medications in a timely manner, even if an individual pharmacist objects to dispensing a specific drug. Specifically, a pharmacist who has a personal objection must notify their employer in writing about which specific drugs they cannot dispense, and the employer must provide a reasonable accommodation that does not create an undue hardship for either the employer or the patient. The accommodation must include establishing a procedure that ensures the patient can obtain their medication without unnecessary delays or being forced to visit another pharmacy. The bill essentially balances the rights of pharmacists to hold personal beliefs with the patient's need to access prescribed medications, requiring pharmacies to create a system that prioritizes patient care while respecting individual employee conscience. The legislation takes effect immediately and allows for immediate development of any necessary implementing regulations.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A6758