PHARACEUTICAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS;

DRUGS- PHARMACEUTICAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS;

This is an update of OLR Report 2003-R-0290 on state prescription drug monitoring programs specifically addressing the issue of federal funding for such programs.

Prescription monitoring programs (PMPs) are systems in which controlled substance dispensing data are submitted to a centralized database administered by an authorized state agency. These programs are designed to help prevent and detect the diversion and abuse of pharmaceutical controlled substances, particularly at the retail level where no other automated collection system exists.

As we stated in the prior report, the U. S. Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Assistance, issued a competitive grant announcement for states seeking to establish PMPs. The deadline for applying was July 12, 2002. State governments eligible to apply were those with legislation or regulations, either pending or in place, that (1) enabled the development of a prescription drug monitoring program and (2) authorized or designated a state agency to implement and administer the program. The grant program received additional funding ($ 7. 2 million) to continue in federal FY 2002-03. The Bureau of Justice Assistance recently announced eligibility standards, application procedures, selection criteria, and other information for states seeking to receive this grant money to either establish a new PMP or enhance an existing one. All applications must be submitted electronically through the Office of Justice Programs’ Grants Management System (GMS) by 5 pm on June 12, 2003. GMS can be accessed at http: //grants. ojp. usdoj. gov.

We have attached information on the grant application process.

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