New Florida Law Aimed at Fighting Opioid Abuse
Florida has recently passed several new bills into law which are aimed at stemming the State’s growing drug-addiction problem. The rise in opioid addiction rates is also a national phenomenon, but Florida’s Senate Bill 422 (SB 422) is formulated with specific intent to curb what is regarded as a state-wide addiction epidemic among prescription opioid users. This bill effectively removes the ability of insurance companies to mandate the prescription of unlabeled opioid-containing medications if abuse-deterrent counterparts are available. The Bill was effective as of 1 January 2017.
What does this mean in ordinary language? In essence, it gives legal preference to abuse-deterrent medications. Labels don’t change the inherent properties of these drugs. They simply point to the fact that properties attractive to addicts have been altered or removed to make substance abuse less rewarding.
A Potentially Difficult Scenario for Patients
With this in mind, it’s possible that the new bill will drive a “hard bargain” with patients and insurance companies when it comes to providing the best medication for their needs. If you believe that your access to the optimal medication on the market has been compromised, it’s possible to fight the priority use of particular FDA-approved drugs over your usual prescription medication. Such a decision would hinge on proving the original medication is a superior treatment. A dedicated criminal lawyer in Miami will burn the midnight oil to ensure your medical needs are met.
SB 936: A Bill to Deal With Dextromethorphan Abuse
Meanwhile, a further bill, SB 936 – leveled at reducing the rates of dextromethorphan abuse in minors – came into effect as of January 1st 2017 as well. This bill, signed into law by Governor Rick Scott on April 1st, 2016, requires that those who appear to belong to the 18 – 25 year-old age range, produce identification proving that they are of 18 years or older. A maximum fine of $100 will be imposed for each instance of infringement of this law on the part of sellers, distributors or manufacturers. Should you require assistance in reducing such penalties, a Miami criminal lawyer on our team, will be able to bring years of specialized knowledge on drug laws to the table.
We have a remarkable range of expertise in the area of drug possession laws. If you or someone you know has been accused of illegal drug possession, we can put you in touch with a criminal lawyer in Miami who has the relevant background to deal with your case. We’re convinced that no matter how daunting your situation may be, we’re dedicated to working towards a result either in reducing your charges or having them thrown out of court. Indeed, while expunging your case may seem an unlikely scenario for you now, a skilled Miami criminal defense attorney from our respected Miami criminal law firm is your best bet in achieving that outcome. Don’t delay in calling, though. Pre-filing representation your case will provide the best chances of a “no action” or “not guilty” verdict.
Stroleny Law: Criminal Defense Attorney handles a variety of criminal law cases, so call now if you have any questions, (305) 615-1285.
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