California Assemblywoman Susan Bonilla intends to introduce legislation in the state that is designed to override federal licensing of 3PLs in the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Drug Quality and Security Act. The bill, offered as an amendment to AB 2605, is the California Board of Pharmacy’s proposal which essentially inserts “3PL” wherever the word “wholesaler” is found, which IWLA has worked hard to separate. IWLA fully supports the adoption of a uniform licensing standard for the safety and security of the pharmaceutical supply chain. However, when states like California establish their own licensing requirements, the practice brings new complications that deviate from the federal requirements. This can increase security risks.

IWLA Washington Representation Pat O’Connor met with the California Board of Pharmacy executive officer Giny Hereld and her legislative staff. “We informed them that we continue to want to collaborate on licensing standards, but the draft bill does not accurately reflect the role of 3PLs in the supply chain and is in conflict with the DQSA,” O’Connor says. If the board stays the course, legislation will be heard April 29 by the Assembly Committee on Business, Professions and Consumer Protection. Stay tuned for more.