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Bill would authorize nonprofit pharmacies to help in emergencies; Rx Outreach testifies in support
Summary
Representative Wendy Hausman introduced a bill to clarify authority for nonprofit pharmacies to dispense short-term emergency supplies to underserved patients after disasters; Rx Outreach described its role in the 2025 St. Louis tornado and said controlled substances would not be dispensed under this authority.
Representative Wendy Hausman introduced House Bill 3009, saying the bill provides clarity for nonprofit pharmacies serving low-income and underserved patients in emergency situations and cited the 2025 St. Louis tornado as the impetus. She said the measure preserves safety and licensing standards, does not reduce oversight, and carries no state cost.
Henry Talamalk of Rx Outreach testified in support and described Rx Outreach as "the nation's largest nonprofit pharmacy." He recounted work after the St. Louis tornado and explained that under similar executive orders, pharmacists were able to dispense short-term supplies (e.g., a 7- or 10-day supply) to ensure continuity of essential medications such as insulin or albuterol while patients regained prescriptions. He said the approach would not allow dispensing controlled substances and that limits would remain in place to avoid abuse.
Representative Hausman and witnesses said the bill is written to apply to entities licensed in Missouri and to emergency situations; they indicated willingness to consider amendments to clarify whether independent pharmacies should be included. The chair closed the hearing on the bill after testimony and questions.
