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6/15/2021
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Senate passes bill targeting reckless prescription practices
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STATE HOUSE – The Senate today approved legislation sponsored by Senate Health and Human Services Committee Chairman Joshua Miller to help address the opioids epidemic by creating penalties for irresponsible prescription practices.
The bill (2021-S 0256Aaa) grants any licensing board responsible for governing the professional conduct of individuals with the authority to prescribe controlled substances the authority to fine licensees found guilty of unprofessional conduct or violating any provision of the general laws. While no fine would be allowed for a first offense, second offenses could result in fines of up to $1,000, and subsequent offenses could result in up to $5,000 each in fines. The bill also allows the Board of Medical Licensure and Discipline to recover more of its administrative costs from proceedings if a licensee is found guilty of an offense. Currently, the board can recover up to $10,000. The bill would raise the cap to $30,000.
The bill is aimed primarily at discouraging reckless overprescribing of opioid painkillers.
“Our opioids crisis is, in part, fueled by addictions that started with prescriptions for painkillers. While most providers take their role in preventing addiction very seriously, there must be real consequences for the few who don’t. The consequences suffered by addicted patients are far worse,” said Chairman Miller (D-Dist. 28, Cranston, Providence).
The legislation is now headed to the House, where Rep. Deborah Fellela is sponsoring a companion bill (2021-H 5094A). The House Judiciary Committee has recommended that bill for passage by the full House.
Cosponsors of the Senate bill include Sen. Bridget G. Valverde (D-Dist. 35, North Kingstown, East Greenwich, Narragansett, South Kingstown), Sen. Valarie J. Lawson (D-Dist. 14, East Providence), Sen. Gayle L. Goldin (D-Dist. 3, Providence), Sen. Meghan E. Kallman (D-Dist. 15, Pawtucket, North Providence) and Sen. Alana M. DiMario (D-Dist. 36, Narragansett, North Kingstown).
The bill is one of many that Chairman Miller has sponsored over the years to address various facets of the opioids epidemic.
“The opioids and overdose crises we face are very complex. We have to work from every angle and close every loophole to tackle its causes and the roadblocks to recovery. I’m grateful to my colleagues in the Senate for continuing this work with me to help Rhode Islanders escape from the shackles and suffering of addiction,” he said.
For more information, contact:
Meredyth R. Whitty, Publicist
State House Room 20
Providence, RI 02903
(401) 222-1923
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