State Rep. Joanne Shofner argues the bill is about medical freedom, saying people in rural communities deserve quicker, cheaper access to treatment.
AUSTIN, Texas — A bill that would allow pharmacists to dispense ivermectin without a prescription from a healthcare provider is beginning to move through the Texas Legislature.
State Rep. Joanne Shofner, R-Nacogdoches, authored House Bill 25, and the House Public Health Committee discussed the proposed legislation Friday. But it was left pending in committee for now. Sen. Bob Hall filed a similar bill, Senate Bill 29, as well.
According to the text of the bill, the law would make the commissioner of the Texas Department of State Health Services issue a statewide order to authorize a licensed pharmacist to dispense ivermectin without a health care practitioner’s prescription.
The order would include written, standardized procedures for a pharmacist to follow when dispensing ivermectin. The pharmacist would be required to give each patient instructions on how to use ivermectin properly.
During the House committee hearing, Shofner argued the bill is about medical freedom, saying people in rural communities deserve quicker, cheaper access to treatment.
But Democrats on the public health committee fired back and questioned why Texas would widen access to a drug not approved to treat COVID-19. One member called it a “political statement” that could put lives at risk.
Others pressed for at least a warning label, making clear ivermectin isn’t Food and Drug Administration-approved for viruses.
Shofner stood her ground, saying Texans should decide for themselves — not the government.
If approved by the legislators and Gov. Greg Abbott, the law would take effect on the 91st day after the last day of the legislative session.