Bill > S1042

This bill mandates that pharmaceutical product manufacturers selling certain drugs, referred to as "covered drugs" (which include prescription drugs in schedules II or III, and benzodiazepines, but exclude veterinary drugs, cosmetics, compounded drugs, sharps, and addiction treatment medications), must establish a "drug stewardship program" to manage the collection, security, transport, and safe disposal of "unwanted drugs" (any covered drug no longer wanted or intended for consumption, excluding waste from commercial sources like pharmacies or hospitals). Manufacturers can either operate their own approved program or contract with a "stewardship organization" to do so, with the Department of Public Health overseeing the approval and renewal of these plans every three years. These programs must include convenient collection methods like mail-back options or kiosks, ensure security and public outreach, and be funded by manufacturers without passing costs directly to consumers, though incentives for returning drugs are encouraged. The bill also requires pharmacists to display expiration dates on dispensed substances in a specific print size, allowing no more than ten characters per inch, and establishes penalties for non-compliance, including fines and potential referral to the Attorney General. Importantly, retail pharmacies are not required to participate in drug collection or disposal unless they consent through a written agreement.