Lawmakers on the Assembly Health Committee approve a rule change affecting small businesses, as part of a proposed statewide prescription drug monitoring program.
Arthur Thexton of the National Association of Drug Diversion Investigators says such a database is vital, especially as bordering states have such programs. Thexton says those abusing prescriptive drugs in neighboring states may find it difficult to “doctor shop” for more pills. He’s concerned those patients may flee to Wisconsin to get additional drugs.
Thexton says overdose deaths from prescription drugs now exceed those from illicit drugs like heroin.
Although several lawmakers were not in attendance, the panel voted unanimously for the rule change.
AUDIO: Brian Moon reports (1:03)
