HB84 Alabama 2019 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Arnold MooneyRepresentative

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2019

Title

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

Summary

HB 84 would require electronic prescriptions to specify whether a generic drug may be dispensed.

What This Bill Does

If passed, electronic prescriptions from practitioners must include an instruction about whether a generic version can be dispensed. The bill keeps existing rules allowing substitution of a cheaper equivalent when authorized, and requires recording of the actual drug product dispensed. It also preserves the two-signature line requirement for written prescriptions and requires electronic or oral prescriptions to instruct pharmacists about substitution; violations can result in a fine. The act becomes law on the first day of the third month after passage and approval.

Who It Affects

• Licensed pharmacists in Alabama, who must follow substitution instructions on electronic prescriptions and record dispensing details.
• Practitioners (physicians and other prescribers) who issue electronic prescriptions, as they must indicate whether a generic may be dispensed.

Key Provisions

• Electronic prescriptions must specify whether a generic drug product may be dispensed.
• Pharmacists may substitute a less expensive pharmaceutically and therapeutically equivalent drug if the prescriber authorizes it; substitution rules apply for both in-state and out-of-state prescribers.
• Written prescriptions must contain two signature lines with 'dispense as written' and 'product selection permitted'; electronic or oral prescriptions must instruct about substitution and be documented accordingly.
• The pharmacist must record the actual drug product dispensed and its manufacturer on the prescription record.
• Violations can result in a fine of up to $1,000.
• Effective date: the act takes effect on the first day of the third month after its passage and 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

Prescription Drugs