House Bill 364 Alabama 2026 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Greg BarnesRepresentative

Republican

Session

2026 Regular Session

Title

Opioids; require health care professionals to discuss opioid use prior to prescription of Schedule II controlled substances, exceptions provided

Summary

HB364 would require physicians and nurse practitioners to discuss opioid risks and alternatives with patients before issuing the first and third prescriptions for Schedule II opioids or opioid pain relief drugs, and to document the discussion, with specific exceptions, starting Oct. 1, 2026.

What This Bill Does

Before prescribing the initial and third Schedule II opioid or opioid pain relief drug, a doctor or nurse practitioner must discuss risks and related information with the patient, including why the drug is needed, possible alternatives, and risks of addiction, overdose, drug interactions, dependence, and taking more than prescribed. The discussion must be recorded in the patient’s medical records, noting the reason for prescribing. If the patient is 18 or younger, the discussion must be with a parent or legal guardian. Certain patients are exempted (cancer treatment, hospice/palliative care, long-term care residents, or treatment for substance abuse or dependence). The act becomes effective October 1, 2026.

Who It Affects

• Patients prescribed a Schedule II opioid or other opioid pain relief drug (and, if under 18, their parent/guardian) who would receive mandated risk discussions and documentation.
• Physicians and nurse practitioners who prescribe Schedule II opioids or opioid pain relief drugs and must perform the discussions and maintain the medical record notes, subject to the exemptions.

Key Provisions

• Before prescribing the first and a third prescription for a Schedule II opioid or opioid pain relief drug, the clinician must discuss risks and other information with the patient and document the discussion in the medical record.
• Exemptions apply for active cancer treatment, hospice/palliative care, long-term care residents, or treatment for substance abuse/opioid dependence; minors require discussion with a parent/guardian; effective date is October 1, 2026.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 12, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Health