Governor Cuomo Signs Assemblywoman Gunther’s Bill Allowing Pharmacies to Take Back Controlled Substances

September 30, 2013

Monticello, NY – Assemblywoman Aileen Gunther (D,I,WF-Forestburgh) announced that Governor Andrew Cuomo recently signed legislation that would include pharmacies as a disposal site for unused controlled substances (A1101-B) once federal regulations are adopted.

“Seventy percent of prescription drug abusers get their drugs from a family member or friend,” said Assemblywoman Gunther. “This legislation is a proactive step to getting unused prescription drugs out of the home and away from people who would sell or abuse them.”

Under current federal rules, only law enforcement agencies are qualified disposal sites. In 2012, the US Drug Enforcement Agency published proposed regulations that would expand options for drug disposal. Assemblywoman Gunther’s legislation directs the Commissioner of the New York State Department of Health to include pharmacies as qualified disposal sites on a voluntary basis and develop regulations for the anticipated change in federal rules.

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