Health

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.

The Associated Press is reporting that a medical clinic and shelter in Pikeville have been closed until early April, while owners attempt to treat the entire facility for a bedbug infestation. Westcare Kentucky Vice President Leslie Balonick says the bugs were found in a room in the men's dormitory and an exterminator advised closing the Pikeville clinic for the next ten days. Exterminators will use that time to clean out the buildings.

A Kentucky Senate committee has approved a bill that aims to toughen laws against prescription pill abuse. House Bill 4 is a collaborative effort between House Speaker Greg Stumbo, Attorney General Jack Conway and Governor Steve Beshear.