HB314 Alabama 2023 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Phillip RigsbyRepresentative

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2023

Title

Relating to pharmacists and the dispensing of emergency refills of medication; to amend Section 34-33-75 of the Code of Alabama 1975, to increase the supply of medication that may be dispensed in a one-time emergency refill to include the smallest dispensable package size of a medication; and to further provide for the notice to the prescriber after dispensing.

Summary

The bill expands emergency refills by pharmacists, allowing the smallest package size to count toward the emergency supply, excludes Schedule I/II drugs, and requires prescriber notification within 24 hours after dispensing.

What This Bill Does

If a pharmacist cannot quickly obtain refill authorization, they may dispense a one-time emergency refill. The allowed amount can be up to a 72-hour supply or the smallest dispensable package size for the medication. It does not apply to Schedule I or II controlled substances. The pharmacist must create a written order with the required prescription details and notify the prescriber within 24 hours after dispensing.

Who It Affects

• Patients who rely on emergency refills: may receive a larger emergency supply by including the smallest package size, subject to drug type restrictions (not Schedule I/II).
• Pharmacists and prescribers: pharmacists must document the emergency refill and notify the prescriber within 24 hours; prescribers are informed and may be subject to joint-rule guidance.

Key Provisions

• Emergency refill amount: up to a 72-hour supply or the smallest dispensable package size for the prescribed medication.
• Drug exclusions: emergency refills not allowed for Schedule I or II substances.
• Documentation: the pharmacist must create a written order containing all required prescription information.
• Notification: the pharmacist must notify the prescriber within 24 hours after dispensing.
• Regulatory rules: Board of Pharmacy and Board of Medical Examiners may adopt joint rules to implement the section.
• Effective date: becomes law on the first day of the third month after passage.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 22, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.