House passes bill to let trained pharmacists prescribe buprenorphine for opioid disorder

The Minnesota House approved House File 4493, which authorizes pharmacists who complete voluntary training to initiate, prescribe, administer and dispense certain drugs for the treatment of opioid use disorder, including buprenorphine (Suboxone).

Representative Baker, who introduced the bill, described it as a measure that can "literally save a lot of lives" by allowing pharmacists—the health professionals many people see most often—to provide timely medication-assisted treatment at the point of contact. Baker and other supporters said rapid access to buprenorphine can help people through the most acute phase of withdrawal and reduce immediate barriers created by appointment waits or prior-authorization delays.

Representative Bierman and other members praised the bill—s careful drafting and the author—s responsiveness to concerns about safety and implementation. Baker described an optional eight-hour training element and emphasized that pharmacists and professional organizations supported the approach.

The roll call recorded 134 yays and 0 nays; the bill passed and its title was agreed to. Sponsors said the expansion will primarily address urgent treatment gaps, especially in Greater Minnesota, where timely access to providers can be limited.