The Legislative Analysis and Public Policy Association (LAPPA) is pleased to announce the release of The Model Drug Take Back and Disposal Program Act. The primary purpose of this Act is to establish a comprehensive and uniform statewide system for the safe and convenient collection and disposal of unused, expired, and unwanted drugs. Research indicates that the quantity of unused drugs in American homes is substantial, with many of those drugs either becoming waste and potentially harming humans and marine and animal life or falling into the hands of individuals to whom they are not prescribed, providing opportunities for misuse and diversion.
Per the provisions of this Act, states would:
- designate an agency or department to oversee the statewide system of drug take-back programs.
- require that manufacturers that sell their product into the state pay an annual fee to help cover the costs related to implementing the provisions of this Act.
- promote public outreach that educates residents on the inherent risks of unused, expired, and unwanted drugs; the potential harm to the environment posed by improper drug disposal; and the options for collection and disposal of drugs available within the state.
- ensure that state drug take-back and disposal programs operate in an efficient manner that prioritizes the safe and secure disposal of drugs.
Click here, to read the full text of the Model Drug Take Back and Disposal Program Act.