Bill > A07230

This bill establishes a comprehensive set of requirements for pharmacies when pharmacists refuse to fill prescriptions based on personal beliefs. The legislation aims to balance religious freedom with patients' access to legal medications, particularly contraceptives. Specifically, pharmacies must ensure that if a pharmacist refuses to fill a prescription due to personal beliefs, another pharmacist must fill the prescription without delay. If a product is not in stock, the pharmacy must immediately inform the patient and, with the patient's consent, order the medication through another pharmacist. The bill prohibits pharmacies from employing pharmacists who intentionally obstruct prescription filling through actions like refusing to return prescription forms, transferring prescription information, harassing patients, or breaching medical confidentiality. Pharmacies found in violation can face significant penalties, including civil fines up to $5,000 per day (not exceeding $500,000 in a single proceeding) and potential civil lawsuits by aggrieved individuals seeking damages and legal fees. The law defines key terms like "employ" and "without delay" to provide clear guidelines, and it will take effect 180 days after becoming law. The underlying goal is to protect patients' rights to access legal medications while respecting individual pharmacists' personal beliefs.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A7230