BILL ANALYSIS


                                                        H.B. 1504
                                         By: Van de Putte (Madla)
                                        Health and Human Services
                                                         05-04-95
                              Senate Committee Report (Unamended)
BACKGROUND

In 1983, the Texas Legislature authorized the State Board of
Pharmacy to fund a peer assistance program to identify and assist
pharmacists and pharmacy students who are physically, chemically,
or mentally impaired.  In 1991, the cap on the amount of the
surcharge was increased from $1 to $5.  Since its inception, the
Pharmacist Recovery Network has assisted over 500 pharmacists.  As
the number of pharmacists entering the network increased, it has
become apparent that the $5 surcharge is not adequate to fund the
program.

PURPOSE

As proposed, H.B. 1504 increases the surcharge ceiling the Texas
State Board of Pharmacy may add to the charge for a license or
license renewal to $10, rather than $5.

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not grant any
additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, institution, or
agency.

SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS

SECTION 1. Amends Section 27A(g), Article 4542a-1, V.T.C.S. (Texas
Pharmacy Act), to authorize the Texas State Board of Pharmacy
(board) to add a surcharge of not more than $10, rather than $5, to
a license or license renewal fee authorized under this Act to fund
the program to aid impaired pharmacists or pharmacy students.

SECTION 2. Amends Section 27A(j), Article 4542a-1, V.T.C.S., to
make nonsubstantive changes.

SECTION 3. Effective date: September 1, 1995.
           Makes application of this Act prospective.

SECTION 4. Emergency clause.