HB36 Alabama 2013 Session

Updated Feb 27, 2026

Notable

Summary

Primary Sponsor: Ron Johnson
Republican
Session: Regular Session 2013
Title: Pharmacy Board, prescription drugs in nursing homes, dispensing by automated dispensing systems, rule authorized, Sec. 34-23-74 am'd
Summary: The bill lets skilled nursing facilities use automated dispensing systems, with rules and supervision provided by the Alabama Board of Pharmacy.
What This Bill Does
It amends Section 34-23-74 to explicitly authorize automated dispensing systems in skilled nursing facilities, operated by a pharmacy with a permit. These systems must be stocked under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist and dispensing must follow the facility's established policies. The Board of Pharmacy may adopt additional rules about using these systems, including storage, handling, and disposal of unused drugs, after consulting with the Alabama Society of Hospital Pharmacists. The act becomes effective immediately after governor approval.

Who It Affects
Skilled nursing facilities (nursing homes): may implement and use automated dispensing systems for medications, under board rules.
Pharmacies with permits for automated dispensing systems: authorized to operate and stock these systems in skilled nursing facilities.
Licensed pharmacists (and consulting pharmacists): must supervise stocking and dispensing of drugs through the automated systems.
Residents/patients of skilled nursing facilities: may receive medications via automated dispensing systems.

Key Provisions
Authorizes the use and operation of automated dispensing systems in skilled nursing facilities by a pharmacy holding a permit for that purpose, under rules adopted by the Board of Pharmacy, with stocking supervised by a licensed pharmacist and dispensing in accordance with institutional policy.
Allows the Board to adopt additional rules on storage, handling, and disposal of unused drugs related to automated dispensing systems, after consulting with the Alabama Society of Hospital Pharmacists; the act takes effect immediately upon governor's approval.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.
Subjects: Health