House lawmakers approved a compromise to enact a statewide prescription drug monitoring act, setting the stage for a potential end to an eight-year battle.
Approved by a vote of 94-59, the Narcotics Control Act would establish a statewide electronic prescription-monitoring database to track the prescription of drugs with potential for abuse. Missouri is the only state without such a program.
Currently, a monitoring program led by St. Louis County covers 75 jurisdictions, about 85% of Missourians, according to previous reporting.
In order for the bill to reach the governor’s desk, the Senate must also approve the legislation. An earlier version of the bill was passed by the body in March. It has failed to reach the finish line for seven years.
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