STATEHOUSE (Aug. 25, 2023) – State Rep. Stephen Bartels' (R-Eckerty) legislation to create a prescription drug donation repository program for Hoosiers in need is now law.
House Enrolled Act 1017 establishes a prescription drug donation repository program like others created in dozens of states, including Iowa and Florida. Facilities like hospitals and health clinics, and individuals, will be able to donate unexpired prescription drugs that are still in their original packaging so that Hoosiers without health insurance or struggling to afford needed prescriptions could use them. To be eligible to receive the drugs, Hoosiers must meet certain income requirements, and be either uninsured or underinsured with no coverage for their medications.
"Many Hoosiers can't afford essential medications, but it's estimated that billions of dollars' worth of prescription drugs annually go unused across the country – and that's frustrating," Bartels said. "It's my hope these lifesaving medications can be donated to those who don't have the ability to pay."
Bartels said the need for affordable medications is especially acute for cancer patients. The American Cancer Society estimates over 40,000 new cancer cases will be diagnosed in Indiana this year, at a time when chemotherapy drugs are in short supply.
While the repository program is not yet ready, approved health care facilities and professionals will administer local repositories with oversight from the Indiana Board of Pharmacy. All donated drugs must undergo a safety inspection by practitioners with knowledge or experience with the drug. Controlled substances and abortion-inducing drugs may not be donated to the program.
Bartels said other states establishing prescription drug donation repository programs have had success. Prescription medicines valued at over $8 million were donated in Iowa in 2021. Oklahoma started its program in 2004 and has filled more than 250,000 prescriptions.
To follow other legislation signed into law by the governor, visit in.gov/gov/newsroom/2023-bill-watch/.
-30-
State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) represents House District 74,
which includes all of Crawford, Perry and Spencer counties, and portions of Dubois and Orange counties.
Click here for a high resolution photo.
