Louisiana
Gov. Jeff Landry (R) signed several bills into law that impact pharmacies, including:
HB 15/Act 121, effective August 1, updates the state's controlled substance schedules to align with recent federal scheduling actions taken since the last legislative session. Three substances were added to Schedule I, including two opiates and one stimulant.
HB 210 /Act 159, effective August 1, establishes provisions for the retention, archiving and destruction of certain information within the state's Prescription Monitoring Program.
SB 19 /Act 464, effective June 20, 2025, authorizes pharmacists to dispense ivermectin to individuals aged 18 years and older under a standing order issued by a Department of Health (LDH) healthcare professional with prescriptive authority. LDH must first adopt rules outlining the procedures for dispensing ivermectin.
SB 154 /Act 41, effective August 1, defines "Kratom" and classifies 7- hydroxymitragynine and mitragynine as Schedule I controlled substances in the state. The Act also adds Mitragyna speciosa to the state's list of prohibited plants.
HB 690 /Act 396, effective June 20, 2025, directs the State Surgeon General to develop rules for the administration of medical activities under Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) or all members of the healthcare community in the state. These rules will not override federal regulations but will provide state specific guidance to promote uniformity and safety in administration.
HB 264 /Act 474, effective June 20, 2025, introduces several key reforms regulating PBMs in the state.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.
Maryland
The Medicaid Office of Pharmacy Services (OPS) issued an advisory this week reminding Medicaid-enrolled pharmacies about the regulatory requirements for returning an unclaimed prescription to stock. According to COMAR 10.09.03.03 (M), pharmacies are required to reverse invoice charges for any prescription not picked up by the participant or their designee within 14 days of dispensing the opioid antagonist. The 14-day period begins at the date of service (dispensing). The advisory cautioned that they are actively monitoring claim reversals and that signs of non-compliance may trigger audits and further review.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Jill McCormack at 717-592-8977.
Oregon
The August 6-8 Board of Pharmacy meeting agenda and meeting materials are available. Please note on August 6, the board will meet in Executive Session for most of the day and anticipates resuming Open Session around 4:30 pm. Also note on August 7, the board anticipates meeting in Executive Session after roll call and resuming Open Session at 1:00 pm.
Finally, the board anticipates meeting in Open Session on August 8 and will break for lunch between 12 noon to 1:00 pm. Please see the meeting agenda for additional information. Additional meeting materials may be added to the agenda prior to the board meeting. Visit the board website for current meeting materials.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Sandra Guckian at 703-774-4801.
Pennsylvania
The Board of Pharmacy has posted the application for pharmacists seeking temporary provisional licenses. The process was required by Act 34 of 2025, the recently enacted bill intended to provide relief to pharmacies experiencing increased workloads due to pharmacy closures.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Jill McCormack at 717-592-8977.
Texas
The Board of Pharmacy (TSBP) issued guidance for the emergency dispensing of prescription medications as a result of flooding in the Hill Country.
Also in Texas, the Drug Utilization Review Board posted the agenda for the July 25 meeting.
Also in Texas, the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) Vendor Drug Program (VDP) Medicaid issued guidance for pharmacy claims for a 90-day supply of prescription drugs for children in the Fee-For-Service program impacted by the Hill Country flooding.
Also in Texas, NACDS sponsored the Texas Pharmacy Association's (TPA) 2025 Conference and Expo in Austin. The three-day event featured lots of CE sessions, including an update from the Executive Director of the Board of Pharmacy, pharmacist Danny Carroll. There was also a recap of the successful 89th legislative session and a Passing of the Gavel ceremony, during which pharmacist Jason Davis from HEB was sworn in as the president of TPA.
Also in Texas, Gov. Greg Abbott (R) convened a 30-day special session on July 21. The Governor's proclamation identified 18 issues lawmakers will debate including increased funding for statewide emergency communication warning systems, regulation of hemp-derived products, tightening laws against medication abortion and congressional redistricting aimed at adding five more GOP seats. House Democrats are coming under increased pressure from national leaders in their party to prevent Republican leadership from redrawing congressional districts. Special sessions last 30 calendar days, but there is no limit on how many the governor can call. Acting Comptroller Kelly Hancock (R) announced that the Biennial Revenue Estimate (BRE) for fiscal years 2026–27 remains unchanged, with $3.1 billion available for general-purpose spending through August 31, 2027.
The National Association of Chain Drug Stores (NACDS) sponsored the Texas Pharmacy Association's (TPA) 2025 Conference and Expo in Austin, where pharmacists, students, and technicians joined with their pharmacy peers. The three-day event featured lots of CE sessions, including the opening general session featuring a look at the new era at TPA under the leadership of CEO RoxAnn Dominguez, and an update from the Executive Director of the Board of Pharmacy, pharmacist Danny Carroll. There was also a recap of the successful 89th legislative session and a Passing of the Gavel ceremony, during which pharmacist Jason Davis from HEB was sworn in as the president of TPA.
Finally in Texas, Acting Comptroller Kelly Hancock (R) announced that the Biennial Revenue Estimate (BRE) for fiscal years 2026–27 remains unchanged, with $3.1 billion available for general-purpose spending through Aug. 31, 2027.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.
Washington
The Pharmacy Quality Assurance Commission collaborated with the Washington Medical Commission, the Washington State Board of Nursing, the Board of Osteopathic Medicine and Surgery and the Board of Naturopathy to create brief tip sheets for the ongoing Rite Aid closures. Download the Rite Aid Closures Tip Sheet for Clinicians and the Rite Aid Closures Tip Sheet for Patients.
Also in Washington, the Department of Health Office of the Assistant Secretary announced policy, procedures and guidelines exercising enforcement discretion to permit pharmacists and pharmacy technicians to practice in the state without an active Washington state credential or certification under chapters 18.130, 18.64, or 18.64A RCW only for the purpose of assisting with prescription transfers due to the closures of Rite Aid and Bartell Drugs pharmacies in Washington.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.
Wyoming
The Department of Health (WDH) confirmed a third case of measles in an unvaccinated adult from Carbon County.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Sandra Guckian at 703-774-4801.
Alabama
The Alabama Pharmacy Association is now accepting nominations for two Alabama Board of Pharmacy Seats.
Nominations for the Pharmacy Technician position are being accepted through July 31. All candidates must be a resident of the state and must be nationally certified and registered in the state for a minimum of five years. They must also be actively engaged in the practice of pharmacy. Nominators should include CPhT documentation along with nomination.
Nominations for the Specialty Pharmacist position are being accepted through July 31. All candidates must be a resident of the state. They must be licensed pharmacists who have been licensed in the state for a minimum of five years and who are actively engaged in the practice of pharmacy, or pharmacy administration, or both. 34-23-90 defines "Specialty" as "such as nuclear, home infusion, compounding only or consultant pharmacist".
Nominations should be submitted in writing to LJones@aparx.org and should include the nominee's name and contact information along with the name and contact information of the individual submitting the nomination.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Leigh Knotts at 803-243-7207.
California
The Board of Pharmacy is sponsoring a training program, "Inspection Expectations, Diversion Trends, Loss Prevention, Legal Updates and CURES," on August 8 via WebEx. Pharmacists who participate will receive six hours of continuing education (CE) credit.
The event is free, but space is limited and preregistration is required. The board has transitioned its registration and CE certification to PharmEd, its new learning management system. To register for the event, you will need to create an account in PharmEd if you do not already have one. To create an account please go to https://pharmed.thinkific.com/. Training attendees who do not use PharmEd will not be given CE credit.
For information on how to register for the event, visit the Board's website at www.pharmacy.ca.gov, scroll down to "Important Information for Licensees," and click on "Free CE Training Registration".
For questions about the event, email the Board at pharmacy.ce@dca.ca.gov.
Also in California, the Department of Health Care Services posted the following:
For more information, contact NACDS’ Sandra Guckian at 703-774-4801.
Kentucky
MedImpact will host the 2nd Quarter Pharmacy Provider Forum on July 30 from 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm EST. For information on how to join the webinar and other items of interest, please see the most recent pharmacy newsletter.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Jill McCormack at 717-592-8977.
Maryland
The Health Care Commission and Chesapeake Regional Information System for our Patients (CRISP) are hosting the Blueprint for Dispenser Reporting of Non-CDS Dispenses webinar on July 23 at 1:00 pm EST via Zoom. Registration is required by July 21. During the webinar, presenters will discuss new requirements for dispensers to report noncontrolled (non-CDS) prescription drugs to the prescription drug monitoring program (PDMP) starting September 1, outlined in Noncontrolled Prescription Drugs Dispenser Data Submission Manual. Attendees are encouraged to share questions ahead of the webinar. Please email your questions to mhcc.noncds@maryland.gov. Please note, CRISP will also host a technical webinar on July 29 at 1:00 pm EST via Zoom to walk through the process for submitting non-CDS dispensing information. Please register in advance for the Non-CDS Data Submission Webinar.
Also in Maryland, NACDS reminds members that Medicaid pays for certain pharmacy healthcare services including MTM, administration of medications, tobacco cessation and vaccinations. They will also pay for any services provided under a collaborative practice agreement (CPA). For more details and enrollment instructions, please refer to this Advisory Bulletin.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Jill McCormack at 717-592-8977.
Nebraska
The Department of Health and Human Services posted the following fee schedules effective July 2025:
For more information, contact NACDS’ Sandra Guckian at 703-774-4801.
New York
On July 16, the State Department of Health hosted its monthly pharmacy community meeting for NYRx, the state Medicaid pharmacy benefit program. NYRx also offers a monthly newsletter that contains helpful updates and links. The call focused on two topics. First, an update on diabetic testing supplies – advising pharmacies to become familiar with the preferred supply list. Second, a reminder to update the ETIN (Electronic Transmitter Identification Number), if needed, and how to do so.
For more information, please contact NACDS’ Mike Sargent at 207-272-6435.
North Carolina
Due to issues at the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), the state legislature passed SB 391, extending the expiration of drivers’ licenses by two years. These expired licenses remain valid for driving, but other uses, like alcohol, tobacco and certain pharmacy sales, are affected. The Board of Pharmacy allows pharmacies to accept expired licenses for dispensing controlled substances. However, pseudoephedrine sales are more complicated, as license scans feed into a national database. NACDS’ in-state partner, North Carolina Retail Merchants Association (NCRMA), is working with legislators to clarify rules for businesses over the next two years.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Leigh Knotts at 803-243-7207.
Ohio
The Board of Pharmacy posted the following rules. NACDS does not intend to comment on these. Members can find more information on submitting comments in the links.
- CSI – BIA – Responsible Person Requirements (Comments Due 8.11.2025).pdf – requires minimum work hours for the Pharmacist-in-Charge (PIC)
- For Stakeholder Comment – Manner of Issuance (Comments Due 8.1.2025).pdf – requires a child's weight on certain pediatric prescriptions
For more information, contact NACDS’ Jill McCormack at 717-592-8977.
Pennsylvania
Members can now bring out-of-state pharmacists into their Pennsylvania stores to help with the high demand for new prescriptions due to pharmacy closures. On July 7, Gov. Josh Shapiro (D) signed Act No. 34 of 2025, which allows the Board of Pharmacy to issue a temporary provisional endorsement license to pharmacists licensed and in good standing in another state. An applicant seeking licensure under the act will not be required to demonstrate substantial equivalency or work experience. The act will expire 180 days from July 7. Further details and the provisional license application have been posted on the board’s website.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Jill McCormack at 717-592-8977.
Tennessee
Last week, Gov. Bill Lee (R) announced that Ralph Alvarado has stepped down as state’s Commissioner of Health (TDH), effective July 11. The current state epidemiologist, John Dunn, will serve as interim commissioner.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Leigh Knotts at 803-243-7207.
Texas
The Board of Pharmacy issued guidance for the emergency dispensing of prescription medications as a result of flooding in the Texas Hill Country.
Also in Texas, the Drug Utilization Review Board posted the agenda for the July 25 meeting.
Finally in Texas, Gov. Greg Abbott (R) will convene a 30-day special legislative session on July 21.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.
Washington
The Pharmacy Quality Assurance Commission collaborated with the Medical Commission, the Board of Nursing, the Board of Osteopathic Medicine and Surgery and the Board of Naturopathy to create brief tip sheets for the ongoing Rite Aid closures. Download the Rite Aid Closures Tip Sheet for Clinicians and the Rite Aid Closures Tip Sheet for Patients.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.
Wyoming
The Department of Health confirmed a second, unrelated case of measles in an unvaccinated child from Natrona County.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Sandra Guckian at 703-774-4801.
Alaska
The first session of the regular legislative session adjourned on May 25. SB 147B and HB 195A, which were supported by pharmacies, aimed to expand access to care by granting pharmacists independent authority. This would establish a standard of care model, allowing pharmacists to fill urgent care gaps and provide patient care services. These bills will be carried over into the 2026 session.
Also in Alaska, Gov. Mike Dunleavy (R) signed SB 132, PBM reform legislation requiring insurers and PBMs to respond within 60 days to any inquiries by the Department of Health. The new law prohibits denial of claims submitted by the Department of Health from failure to obtain prior authorization.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.
California
Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) signed AB 116, the health omnibus trailer bill that contains the specific statutory language to implement the governor's PBM reform policies as outlined in the state's main budget bill. AB 116 requires PBMs to be licensed and regulated by the Department of Managed Health Care (DMHC), the same agency that also regulates health plans in the state. PBMs must obtain and maintain a license with DMHC on or after January 1, 2027, or the date on which DMHC has established the licensure process. DMHC is authorized to charge an annual fee on PBMs to support the department's actual and reasonably necessary expenses to implement PBM licensure and oversight. DMHC is also authorized to suspend or revoke a PBM license or assess administrative penalties if the director determines the licensee has committed acts or omissions constituting grounds for disciplinary action. The Pharmacy Benefit Manager Fund will be established to receive fees, fines, penalties and reimbursements to support regulation of PBMs. DMHC is authorized to conduct periodic routine and non-routine examinations of the fiscal and administrative affairs of any PBM. Furthermore, PBMs must inform its contracted pharmacists of the right to submit complaints to DMHC and must provide certain data to the Department of Health Care Access and Information (HCAI). A PBM also has a fiduciary duty to its payer client that includes a duty to be fair and truthful toward the payer, to act in the payer's best interests, and to perform its duties with care, skill, prudence and diligence.
Also in California, the Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) is establishing Medi-Cal provider enrollment requirements and procedures for pharmacy providers that hold a Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) Certificate of Waiver. Effective August 1, 2025, pharmacy providers that hold a valid Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) Certificate of Waiver and current Certificate of California Clinical Laboratory Registration may bill for CLIA-waived tests provided within the pharmacist's scope of practice as defined by the Board of Pharmacy and authorized in Business and Professions Code Section 4052.4. Pharmacy providers must apply to enroll in the Medi-Cal program by submitting a Medi-Cal provider enrollment online application, along with all supporting documentation. Providers can access Medi-Cal provider enrollment information on the DHCS Provider Enrollment Division webpage.
Finally in California, the Department of Health Care Service posted the following alerts and monthly bulletin on the Medi-Cal Rx Web Portal.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Sandra Guckian at 703-774-4801.
Colorado
Gov. Jared Polis (D) signed SB25-289, a law creating a new Drug Donation Program to facilitate the safe donation and dispensing of unused medicine to Coloradans in need. The program expands upon the drug donation provisions and the corresponding rules and regulations for the Board of Pharmacy; it establishes parameters for participation and sets directives for donation recipients on the requirements for record retention in the program; outlines how to distribute donated medicine; and identifies what types of medicine can be distributed through the donation program.
Also in Colorado, the Health Care Policy & Financing (HCPF) annual Pharmacy Stakeholder Webinar is on August 12 from 9:00 am-11:00 am MT. Discussion will focus on emerging federal threats to Medicaid, state budget challenges, Medicaid cost trend drivers and priorities for fiscal year 2025-2026. Participants are encouraged to register for the webinar in advance.
Finally in Colorado, SB25-308 creates a cash fund for state dollars designated to 1115 waiver programs such as health related social needs and re-entry services for those leaving prison or jail after incarceration.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.
Connecticut
On July 8, 2025, Gov. Ned Lamont (D) signed HB 7192, An Act Implementing the Recommendations of the Bipartisan Drug Task Force. The law enhances the accountability and transparency of PBMs and health carriers and implements recommendations from the Bipartisan Drug Task Force which includes some of NACDS’ PBM policy priorities, including any willing provider. NACDS participated in the task force and submitted testimony when both bills had hearings.
For more information, please contact NACDS’ Mike Sargent at 207-272-6435.
Delaware
On July 1, the Board of Pharmacy held an emergency meeting and adopted emergency regulations regarding pharmacy closures in the state; see Department of State Division of Professional Regulation Emergency Order for details. Additionally, the Department of Insurance issued Domestic and Foreign Bulletin No. 153 RE: Department Expectations in Response to Emergency Order by the Board of Pharmacy and Pharmacy Closures; see the bulletin for details regarding emergency prescription coverage; prior authorizations and prescription transfer; pharmacy reimbursement and network adequacy; consumer protection and transparency; and compliance & enforcement. For questions, comments or requests for clarification, please email compliance@delaware.gov.
For more information, please contact NACDS’ Mike Sargent at 207-272-6435.