RESOLVED, That this Senate of the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations hereby respectfully requests the Department of Human Services with the assistance of the Rhode Island Department of Health, in long-term care facilities, to undertake a review of state prescription drug dispensing procedures and disposal requirements; and be it further

RESOLVED, That this study will determine methods of prescription drug waste reduction in long-term care facilities, including a review of cost-benefit analyses of current practices and alternative health and financial regulations intended to moderate the disposal of unused pharmaceuticals and be not limited to the use of: an automated pharmacy system located in long-term care facilities; other single-dose or low dose dispensing alternatives; and relaxed standards to allow for the re-dispensing of medications remaining unused from previously dispensed prescriptions; and be it further

RESOLVED, That the Department of Human Services shall issue a report of the study, as outlined above, within ninety (90) days of passage of this legislation; and be it further

RESOLVED, That the Secretary of State be and he is hereby authorized and directed to transmit a duly certified copy of this resolution to the Rhode Island Department of Human Services.