Allows a licensed pharmacist to prescribe and order FDA-approved medication assisted therapy under a non-patient-specific regimen for the treatment of opioid use disease.

This bill allows licensed pharmacists in New York to prescribe and manage certain medications that help treat opioid use disorder without needing a specific patient prescription. This means pharmacists can play a more active role in addressing the opioid crisis by providing easier access to treatment for those in need.

Supporters of the bill argue that it empowers pharmacists to take a proactive role in combating the opioid epidemic, making treatment more accessible to individuals who might not seek help otherwise. They believe this approach can lead to better health outcomes and reduce the stigma associated with seeking addiction treatment.

Critics of the bill may express concerns about the potential for over-prescribing or misuse of medication-assisted therapies by pharmacists who may not have the same level of training as physicians. They might argue that this could lead to inappropriate treatment decisions and undermine the quality of care for individuals struggling with opioid addiction.