Lawmakers in favor of measure to allow Hoosiers to dispose of unwanted medicines at pharmacies statewide
By Erin Reece
Senate lawmakers voted unanimously last week in support of legislation sponsored by State Senator Jim Banks of Columbia City allowing Hoosiers to dispose of prescription medications at local pharmacies.
Banks said creating a statewide drug take-back program could help curb drug abuse among young teens.
Every day, about 2,500 U.S. teens use prescription drugs to get high for the first time, according to the Partnership for a Drug Free America. “By creating a secure take-back program, we can keep these unused or expired pills out of the hands of young people who often don’t realize the consequences of abusing prescription drugs,” Banks said.
Federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration reports that more than half of teens who abuse prescription medications say they get them from medicine cabinets at home.
Currently, federal statute mandates law enforcement to be present at drop-off sites but Banks’ legislation would not require a police officer to be on site at a pharmacy.
Banks said the Drug Enforcement Agency is offering its second National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, April 30. This initiative provides several collection sites for people to turn in any prescription drugs not being used. To find the nearest location constituents may go here and click on “Got Drugs?” for more information.
Banks said amendments made by Senate lawmakers will have to be approved by the House of Representatives before moving the governor’s desk.