Exciting Week at the Capitol!

 I am just wrapping another busy week at MPhA. We had several meeting with Minnesota state senators and representatives, as well as attended the House and Senate full session. The House session was very lively, with banter from both sides — similar to what you see in the movies! It was very exciting to see and hear them debate on omnibus House Bill number 1, containing controversial legislation regarding the environment. If you have never been to the State Capitol for a full session I strongly encourage you to attend.  It was so exciting to see democracy in action! While you are there, I also encourage you to meet with your legislators. This past week I had the opportunity to meet with my state representative Sarah Anderson (R) 43A to discuss matters concerning pharmacy, the proposed pharmacy audit bill and expanding MTM eligibility. Representative Anderson was interested to hear from me as a constituent and was very welcoming to the proposed audit bill! 

In addition to spending time at the capital, we had a chance to attend the Board of Pharmacy Rules Package Hearing with the Administrative law judge. The hearing allowed members of the public to provide verbal (and written) comment to the administrative law judge regarding the proposed rule change. After attending the ad-hoc meeting last week, the hearing with the administrative law judge was uniquely different, allowed interested parties to verbalize their concerns, as well as provide background information and context or reasoning for the objection to the proposed changes. I had anticipated the hearing would be "heated," with representation from every area of pharmacy (Community, Institution, Long-Term Care, Industry, etc), however individuals were respectful, eloquent and provided thoughtful insight on the rules package. The next step is a 20-day comment period, where the administrative law judge will accept comments regarding the rule package. If you have any concerns or would like more information on how to contact the administrative law judge, please do not hesitate to contact MPhA for help!