New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S01740

Introduced
1/13/25  
Refer
1/13/25  

Caption

Requires pharmacies to provide prescription drug readers or other means of access to individuals who disclose they have difficulty seeing or reading standard print labels on prescription drug containers; defines "prescription drug reader" to mean a device which is capable of audibly conveying information contained on the label of a prescription drug; makes exceptions.

Summary

Bill S01740 aims to enhance accessibility for individuals with visual impairments by requiring pharmacies in New York to provide prescription drug readers or alternative means to access information on prescription labels. The bill mandates that these devices be available at no extra cost for the duration of the individual's prescription and outlines obligations for pharmacies to inform the public about these resources. Additionally, the bill specifies that pharmacies must follow best practices established by the U.S. Access Board in implementing these requirements.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would amend the education law to include provisions specifically aimed at improving accessibility for visually impaired individuals in the context of prescription medication. It would require pharmacies to adopt new practices and technologies, thereby potentially increasing operational costs for compliance. However, the bill also aims to improve patient safety and autonomy by ensuring that individuals can access critical information about their medications in an accessible format.

Sentiment

The sentiment around Bill S01740 appears to be generally positive, with discussions highlighting the importance of accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Supporters argue that the bill addresses a significant gap in current pharmacy practices, while there may be concerns regarding the implementation costs and logistics for pharmacies, particularly smaller or independent ones.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the potential financial burden on pharmacies, especially smaller establishments that may struggle to implement the required changes. Some stakeholders may argue that the exceptions for certain types of pharmacies, such as those in correctional facilities or sole proprietorships, could limit the bill's effectiveness and accessibility for all individuals in need. There may also be discussions about the adequacy of the timeline provided for implementation and the sufficiency of the measures to inform the public about these resources.

Companion Bills

NY A04039

Same As Requires pharmacies to provide prescription drug readers or other means of access to individuals who disclose they have difficulty seeing or reading standard print labels on prescription drug containers; defines "prescription drug reader" to mean a device which is capable of audibly conveying information contained on the label of a prescription drug; makes exceptions.

Previously Filed As

NY A04039

Requires pharmacies to provide prescription drug readers or other means of access to individuals who disclose they have difficulty seeing or reading standard print labels on prescription drug containers; defines "prescription drug reader" to mean a device which is capable of audibly conveying information contained on the label of a prescription drug; makes exceptions.

NY S07562

Requires prescription drug containers be labeled with a description of the size, shape, color and imprint of the prescription drug it contains.

NY A00084

Requires prescription drug containers be labeled with a description of the size, shape, color and imprint of the prescription drug it contains.

NY A02640

Requires prescription drug containers be labeled with a description of the size, shape, color and imprint of the prescription drug it contains if such drug is in tablet or capsule form.

NY SB1986

Relating to warning labels for opioid prescription drugs.

NY SB0136

Disclosures related to prescription drugs.

NY S09985

Enacts the "foreign drug transparency act" to provide information on the origin, manufacture and distribution of prescription drugs; requires a pharmacy benefit manager to maintain, and make available to pharmacies, health plans, and patients upon request, supply chain information for prescription drugs covered under its network.

NY SB0157

Disclosures related to prescription drugs.

NY A3131

Requires labeling of over-the-counter and prescription drugs containing major food allergen or gluten-containing grain.

NY A10967

Enacts the "foreign drug transparency act" to provide information on the origin, manufacture and distribution of prescription drugs; requires a pharmacy benefit manager to maintain, and make available to pharmacies, health plans, and patients upon request, supply chain information for prescription drugs covered under its network.

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