Prescription drug donation program created

Nebraska will establish a program to allow the donation of prescription drugs under a bill passed April 11.

LB1035, sponsored by Sen. Jana Hughes of Seward, requires the state Department of Health and Human Services to create a prescription drug donation program to permit the donation and dispensing of qualifying prescription drugs.

Under the bill, medications may be donated by individuals or entities, including manufacturers and health care facilities. Donations must:
• undergo inspection prior to donation;
• be in original, unopened, sealed and tamper-evident packaging;
• bear an expiration date more than six months after the donation date, except in limited cases; and
• not be restricted for distribution by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Participation is voluntary and the bill includes civil and criminal protections for individuals and entities that donate medications. The department will designate a nonprofit organization to administer the program.

Lawmakers passed LB1035 on a 47-0 vote.