SRC-CTC S.B. 65 77(R) BILL ANALYSIS Senate Research Center S.B. 65 By: Moncrief Health & Human Services 3/12/2001 As Filed DIGEST AND PURPOSE Currently, an automated pharmacy system (APS) is permitted to dispense a maximum of 36 different medications. The Texas State Board of Pharmacy (board) recently recommended that this number be increased and approved the use of automated pharmacy systems for nursing homes. As proposed, S.B. 65 allows for the use of an APS at a healthcare facility regulated by the state if always under the supervision of a pharmacist. The board is granted rulemaking authority to ensure such systems are properly used. RULEMAKING AUTHORITY Rulemaking authority is expressly granted to the Texas State Board of Pharmacy in SECTION 1 (Section 562.109, Occupations Code) of this bill. SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS SECTION 1. Amends Chapter 562C, Occupations Code, by adding Section 562.109, as follows: Sec. 562.109. AUTOMATED PHARMACY SYSTEMS. Defines "automated pharmacy system." Requires that an automated pharmacy system and authorized technical personnel be under continuous direct or indirect supervision by a pharmacist. Defines "authorized technical personnel." Authorizes an automated pharmacy system to be located only at a health care facility regulated by the state. Grants rulemaking authority regarding the use of an automated pharmacy system to the Texas State Board of Pharmacy (board), including certain features and requirements. SECTION 2. Effective date: upon passage. SECTION 3. Requires that the board adopt rules consistent with this Act by February 28, 2002.