arrow_back Back to App

Mandatory E-Prescribing for Controlled Substances from 2026

Starting January 1, 2026, most prescriptions for controlled substances will be required to be issued electronically. This aims to enhance safety and streamline the medication dispensing process, though exceptions are provided for specific circumstances to ensure continued access to treatment. Citizens can expect their prescriptions for these medications to be digital, potentially reducing wait times at pharmacies.
Key points
Most prescriptions for controlled substances (Schedules II-V) must be electronically transmitted starting January 1, 2026.
Health insurance plans and issuers will need to implement policies for electronic prescribing.
Exceptions to e-prescribing requirements include technical failures, specific drug types, hospice care, or public health emergencies.
Pharmacies are not required to verify a provider's waiver status or deny valid written, oral, or fax prescriptions.
Patients retain the right to choose their preferred pharmacy for dispensing controlled substances.
article Official text account_balance Process page
Expired
Citizen Poll
No votes cast
Additional Information
Print number: 118_HR_7312
Sponsor: Rep. Kuster, Ann M. [D-NH-2]
Process start date: 2024-02-09
Lustra uses Artificial Intelligence. Verify details in source documents.
Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-05-20
Source data: api.congress.gov
AI work logs for this document launch

OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

EPCS 2.0 Act

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 118_HR_7312.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the House of Representatives.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2024-02-09.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Most prescriptions for controlled substances (Schedules II-V) must be electronically transmitted starting January 1, 2026.
  • Health insurance plans and issuers will need to implement policies for electronic prescribing.
  • Exceptions to e-prescribing requirements include technical failures, specific drug types, hospice care, or public health emergencies.
  • Pharmacies are not required to verify a provider's waiver status or deny valid written, oral, or fax prescriptions.
  • Patients retain the right to choose their preferred pharmacy for dispensing controlled substances.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Rep. Kuster, Ann M. [D-NH-2].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-25.

CATEGORIES

Health