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Test‑and‑treat bill sparks sharp debate over pharmacistsscope; committee pauses SB 221

Senate Health Committee · January 14, 2026
AI-Generated Content: All content on this page was generated by AI to highlight key points from the meeting. For complete details and context, we recommend watching the full video. so we can fix them.

Summary

Supporters urged allowing pharmacists to perform CLIA‑waived tests (strep A, influenza, COVID‑19, RSV) and treat under standing orders; physician groups warned the measure risks fragmenting care and exceeding pharmacists' diagnostic training. Committee held the bill for further drafting.

SB 221 would extend standing‑order authority to allow pharmacists to administer CLIA‑waived tests and treat common acute infections (influenza, COVID‑19, RSV, Group A strep) under Department of Health protocols. Chain and independent pharmacists, pharmacy school faculty and retail groups told the committee that pharmacists are trained to perform…

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