HB1732

House Bill 1732 mandates that pharmaceutical wholesale distributors in Arkansas follow specific due process procedures before limiting or terminating the sale of controlled substances to pharmacies or other licensed providers. The bill requires distributors to provide prior education, conduct onsite inspections, interview relevant staff, and provide written notice and an appeal process for any planned limitations on sales. It also grants the Arkansas State Board of Pharmacy oversight authority, requiring that any third-party compliance consultants used by distributors be approved by the board. Distributors are prohibited from taking punitive action against pharmacies based on their own internal allocation settings. Furthermore, the bill establishes transparency requirements, compelling distributors to explain why an order is flagged as suspicious and to provide a contact for dispute resolution. Violations of these provisions are subject to disciplinary action, including fines of at least $10,000. The bill declares an emergency, meaning it would take effect immediately upon enactment.