Ginal’s Bipartisan Bill to Implement Automated Pharmacy Dispensing Systems Passes Senate

HB23-1195 will improve access to prescriptions in areas with pharmaceutical staffing shortages

DENVER, CO – Today, the Senate passed Senator Joann Ginal’s, D-Fort Collins, bill to make it easier for Coloradans to access essential prescription drugs.

HB23-1195 would allow pharmacies to operate automated prescription dispensing machines so patients could access their medication outside of regular pharmacy business hours.

“Coloradans who depend on prescription medications can’t always make it to a pharmacy to pick up their drugs during business hours,” said Ginal. “This bill will make it easier for Coloradans to get medications they need by removing unnecessary roadblocks and will help more people access the critical prescriptions they need without compromising important pharmaceutical safeguards.”

The machines would contain medications commonly prescribed in the pharmacy’s geographic area, and customers would have to confirm their identity with a pharmacist via a live video. They will also help alleviate staffing shortages by enabling pharmacists to serve patients in multiple localities simultaneously.

If passed, Colorado would be the fourth state to allow automated pharmacy dispensing systems, after California, Illinois, and Arizona.

HB23-1195 will now return to the House for concurrence of amendments. To follow the bill’s progress, click HERE.