AUGUSTA (AP) — A bill that would require people filling prescriptions for painkillers and some other drugs to show photo identification at the pharmacy is making its way through the Statehouse.
Representatives of Maine doctors and pharmacies testified in favor of the bill at a public hearing Tuesday.
Civil libertarians and others raised concerns about patient privacy and safety.
The Bangor Daily News reports the bill would require pharmacists to check photo IDs before filling customers’ prescriptions for controlled substances including Oxy- Contin, Ritalin, Vicodin and drugs used to treat insomnia, anxiety and muscle spasms.
Maine Attorney General William Schneider has said there is an epidemic of prescription drug abuse in Maine.
Comments are not available on this story.
Send questions/comments to the editors.
