SB5 Alabama 2019 1st Special Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Larry StuttsSenator

Republican

Session

First Special Session 2019

Title

Prescriptions, electronic prescription to specify whether a generic may be dispensed, Sec. 34-23-8 am'd.

Summary

SB5 would require electronic prescriptions to specify whether a generic drug may be dispensed, aligning with existing rules for written prescriptions about substitution.

What This Bill Does

If passed, the bill amends the prescription law to require electronic prescriptions to indicate whether a generic substitution is allowed. It preserves the ability of pharmacists to substitute a cheaper equivalent if the prescriber authorizes it, and it maintains the requirement that written prescriptions have two signature lines to indicate substitution permissions. It also requires recording the drug's manufacturer and includes penalties for violations. The law would take effect on the first day of the third month after passage.

Who It Affects

• Licensed pharmacists and pharmacies in Alabama, who would need to follow the new electronic-substitution instruction and record-keeping requirements and could face penalties for violations.
• Licensed practitioners (physicians and other prescribers), who must provide clear instructions on substitution for electronic prescriptions and authorize substitutions when applicable.

Key Provisions

• Electronic prescriptions must specify whether a generic product may be dispensed.
• Pharmacists may substitute a less expensive pharmaceutically equivalent drug if the practitioner expressly authorizes it, whether the practitioner is in-state or out-of-state (unless explicitly prohibited).
• Pharmacists must record the name and manufacturer of the drug dispensed on the prescription form.
• Written prescriptions must have two signature lines: one for 'dispense as written' and one for 'product selection permitted'; electronic or oral prescriptions must convey substitution instructions to the pharmacist.
• Prescription labels must indicate the actual drug dispensed (brand or generic) and the manufacturer's name.
• The bill allows formulary or hospital drug lists to be used as appropriate within licensed hospitals.
• Violations can result in a fine of up to $1,000.

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

Subjects

Prescription Drugs