The Senate Government Operations Committee convened on February 19, 2025, to discuss the operations and expenditures of the Board of Pharmacy. The board, consisting of nine members appointed by the governor, meets six times a year. Currently, one position on the board has expired as of July 2024 and is in the appointment process.

During the meeting, it was reported that the board's annual expenditures total approximately $4.2 million. These costs encompass investigations, disciplinary actions, legal expenses, personnel, and operational costs. The board maintains a self-sufficient status with a reserve balance of around $3.3 million.

Committee member Bowling raised concerns regarding the high operational costs, questioning whether the board was conducting a significant number of investigations. He referenced the heightened scrutiny during the COVID-19 pandemic, expressing concerns about the approval status of certain mandates.

Assistant Commissioner Holt Wood responded, clarifying that the Board of Pharmacy operated within the confines of state laws and directives provided by the legislature. He emphasized that the board did not exceed its authority and that pharmacies are inspected approximately every 18 months across the state.

The meeting concluded with an invitation for further questions, indicating a willingness to engage with committee members on the board's operations and expenditures. Overall, the discussions highlighted the board's financial management and its adherence to state regulations during challenging times.