Senator Stone proposes drug disposal bill to curb waste and prevent diversion in Nevada
May 26, 2025 | 2025 Legislature NV, Nevada
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The Assembly Committee on Commerce and Labor convened on May 26, 2025, to discuss Senate Bill 231, which aims to enhance the collection and destruction of unused prescription drugs in Nevada. Senator Jeff Stone, representing Senate District 20, presented the bill, emphasizing the importance of proper drug disposal to prevent misuse and protect the environment.
Senator Stone highlighted the risks associated with storing unused medications, noting that many individuals keep them in easily accessible places, making them vulnerable to misuse by children or visitors. He pointed out that the growing elderly population often receives prescriptions for controlled substances, which can be sold illegally. The senator provided alarming statistics on the street value of these drugs, illustrating the potential for diversion.
The bill proposes to increase the number of drug disposal bins in pharmacies across Nevada, addressing the current shortage. Currently, there are only 64 bins for approximately 3.2 million residents, compared to California's more robust program. The legislation encourages pharmacies to voluntarily install these bins, which would be monitored and maintained according to federal regulations. The service would be free for users, and pharmacies would not be allowed to charge for disposal.
Funding for the initiative is proposed through a $500,000 grant from the Fund for Resilient Nevada, which utilizes opioid settlement funds. This financial support aims to facilitate the installation of additional disposal bins, thereby reducing the risk of drug diversion and environmental contamination.
In addition to the drug disposal provisions, the committee discussed a friendly amendment allowing pharmacists to administer certain diagnostic tests, such as for COVID-19 and strep throat. This amendment aims to expand the role of pharmacists in healthcare while ensuring that they operate within regulated guidelines.
The committee's discussions underscored the dual goals of enhancing public safety and environmental protection through responsible drug disposal practices. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, pending approval, and represents a proactive step toward addressing the challenges posed by unused pharmaceuticals in Nevada.
Senator Stone highlighted the risks associated with storing unused medications, noting that many individuals keep them in easily accessible places, making them vulnerable to misuse by children or visitors. He pointed out that the growing elderly population often receives prescriptions for controlled substances, which can be sold illegally. The senator provided alarming statistics on the street value of these drugs, illustrating the potential for diversion.
The bill proposes to increase the number of drug disposal bins in pharmacies across Nevada, addressing the current shortage. Currently, there are only 64 bins for approximately 3.2 million residents, compared to California's more robust program. The legislation encourages pharmacies to voluntarily install these bins, which would be monitored and maintained according to federal regulations. The service would be free for users, and pharmacies would not be allowed to charge for disposal.
Funding for the initiative is proposed through a $500,000 grant from the Fund for Resilient Nevada, which utilizes opioid settlement funds. This financial support aims to facilitate the installation of additional disposal bins, thereby reducing the risk of drug diversion and environmental contamination.
In addition to the drug disposal provisions, the committee discussed a friendly amendment allowing pharmacists to administer certain diagnostic tests, such as for COVID-19 and strep throat. This amendment aims to expand the role of pharmacists in healthcare while ensuring that they operate within regulated guidelines.
The committee's discussions underscored the dual goals of enhancing public safety and environmental protection through responsible drug disposal practices. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, pending approval, and represents a proactive step toward addressing the challenges posed by unused pharmaceuticals in Nevada.
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