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Idaho Senate OKs bill letting ivermectin be sold without prescription
Summary
After extended debate, the Idaho Senate passed Senate Bill 12-11 to permit over‑the‑counter sales of ivermectin formulated and labeled for humans. The bill passed 25–9 after supporters argued it improves access and opponents warned of safety risks without medical oversight.
The Idaho Senate on April 3 passed Senate Bill 12-11, allowing human‑labeled ivermectin to be sold over the counter without a prescription or consultation with a health care professional. The measure cleared the chamber on a 25–9 roll‑call vote and will be transmitted to the House of Representatives.
Senator Nichols, the bill's sponsor, opened debate by describing SB 12-11 as “a straightforward and responsible measure to allow over‑the‑counter access to ivermectin,” saying the drug has a long safety record and is already available without prescription in many other countries. Nichols told colleagues the bill would limit sales to products “manufactured and labeled for humans” and would not require pharmacies to stock the drug. “This bill is not to burden pharmacies in any way,” he said.
Opponents warned the change could expose people to risk without medical supervision. Senator Reid urged colleagues to vote no, saying pharmacists and doctors have expressed concern and pointing to Food and Drug Administration guidance that has not authorized ivermectin for COVID‑19 treatment. Reid said past misuse during the pandemic led to serious adverse events and that unrestricted access could lead to overdoses or harmful interactions with other drugs.
Other senators spoke for and against the bill during the floor debate. Supporters argued that restricting human‑labeled ivermectin pushed some consumers to veterinary or online sources and that legal, pharmacy‑sourced access would reduce unsafe use. Opponents said the FDA has not approved ivermectin for many proposed uses, that dosing and interactions matter, and that pharmacists and prescribers provide valuable safety checks.
After floor debate closed, the secretary called the roll. The tally was: 25 ayes, 9 nays, 1 absent/excused. The Senate journal shows the measure passed and will be transmitted to the House for consideration.
Votes at a glance - SB 12-11 (ivermectin OTC): Passed Senate 25–9. Outcome: Passed; transmitted to House of Representatives.
What remains next The bill now moves to the Idaho House for consideration. If the House passes the same language, the measure would be sent to the governor for signature or veto.
