Supporters of Prescription Drug Abuse Bill Say There's Still Time for Passage

Governor Steve Beshear and a bi-partisan group of  lawmakers are urging members of the General Assembly to approve the Prescription Drug Abuse Bill known as HB 4.  The measure is sponsored by House Speaker Greg Stumbo, who says the bill was developed with the cooperation of healthcare professionals and law enforcement.  Only one day remains in the legislative session.

Lawmakers will return for the final day of the legislative session on Thursday, April 12th.  Supporters of HB4 maintain that should be enough time to get the measure approved. State Senator Jimmy Higdon says he's anxious to get back to Frankfort to complete work on the bill.

HB 4 would require pain management clinics to be owned by licensed medical practitioners. It would also require medical licensure boards to investigate prescribing complaints immediately and to issue a report within 120 days, determining whether appropriate medical  practices have been followed.