On September 1, 2023 more than 770 new laws passed by the legislature went into effect, including Senate Bill 29 that bans the state from enacting mask mandates, vaccine mandates or business and school closures to prevent the spread of COVID-19. The law makes exceptions for certain entities, such as prisons, hospitals and assisted living centers or nursing homes.
Also in Texas, NACDS sponsored the Passing of the Gavel ceremony where HEB pharmacist Jay Bueche was sworn in as president at the Texas Pharmacy Association’s (TPA) Convention and Expo in Houston.
Also in Texas, the Health, and Human Services Commission (HHSC) Vendor drug program provided several updates of interest to pharmacies:
- September 2023 draft specialty drug list is now available for public comment.
- July 2023 Medicaid Preferred Drug List update which includes changes approved at the January and April 2023 Drug Utilization Review Board meetings. 
- Hepatitis C Treatment Resources Available for Medicaid Clients
- Mosquito Repellent Pharmacy Benefits Available
- Members Sought for the Drug Utilization Review Board (applications due September 15)
- Pharmacy Education Information and Opportunities
- Pharmacy Email Addresses Must Be Current in PEMS (Provider Enrollment and Management System)
Finally in Texas, the Senate impeachment trial for suspended Attorney General Ken Paxton (R) convened on September 5, and the trial is expected to last two-three weeks. In May, Paxton was impeached by the House of Representatives by a vote of 121-23 (61D & 60R) on 20 charges of misapplication of public resources, bribery, obstruction of justice, abuse of public trust and disregard or official duties. Lt. Governor Dan Patrick (R) is presiding over the trial and the 31 State Senators are serving as the jurors.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.