Rating: +1

Bill Summary:

House Bill 200 is a comprehensive modernization and streamlining of Idaho’s pharmacy statutes. It amends, repeals, and replaces dozens of sections in Chapter 17, Title 54 of Idaho Code to clarify regulatory authority, simplify licensure, standardize definitions, and improve oversight over pharmacy operations across the state.

Key reforms include:

• Defining clearer pathways for pharmacist licensure by examination and reciprocity, and introducing a flexible continuing education attestation model.
• Establishing fee caps for licenses and registrations to promote transparency and fiscal responsibility.
• Expanding recognition for multistate pharmacy licenses under mutual recognition agreements with other states, enhancing access and workforce flexibility.
• Modernizing drug outlet requirements, including new minimum standards, reporting obligations, recordkeeping practices, and options for alternative dispensing models.
• Clarifying Board of Pharmacy enforcement powers and standardizing penalties for violations.
• Repealing outdated administrative rules (IDAPA 24.36.01), and codifying their relevant parts directly into statute, improving legislative accountability.

The bill takes effect July 1, 2025, and is enacted with an emergency clause.

Reason for Rating:

HB 200 aligns with the Idaho Republican Party Platform’s emphasis on limited bureaucracy, transparent regulation, and free-market flexibility in professional licensing. It limits overreach by clarifying and repealing rulemaking authority while ensuring public safety through codified standards and enforcement mechanisms. The bill encourages multistate practice, reduces red tape, and upholds accountability—earning it a +1 rating.