The R Street Institute announced on March 25 its support for Maryland Senate Bill 562, which would allow pharmacists to prescribe medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD), such as buprenorphine, under prescriber-pharmacist agreements. The testimony was delivered by Stacey McKenna, Associate Director and Resident Senior Fellow in Healthier Communities at the R Street Institute, before the House Committee on Health.
McKenna said that SB 562 could reduce regulatory barriers and increase access to evidence-based treatment options for individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD). “SB 562 is of special interest to us because it would reduce unnecessary overregulation, increase buprenorphine availability, and thus make it easier for individuals with OUD to get the care they deserve,” McKenna said.
According to McKenna’s testimony, Maryland has seen a decline in drug overdose deaths over the past four years, reaching a ten-year low in 2025. However, she noted that more than 1,300 people still died from drug overdoses last year in the state and that OUD continues to affect many residents. She emphasized both the emotional toll on communities and the financial cost—estimated at $1.4 million per case annually—for healthcare and criminal justice expenses.
McKenna described buprenorphine as an effective FDA-approved medication that reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms while lowering overdose risk. She pointed out that despite its benefits, buprenorphine remains difficult to access due to longstanding regulations limiting who can prescribe it. Recent federal changes have expanded pharmacists’ authority in this area; SB 562 aims to build on these reforms within Maryland.
The testimony highlighted research indicating positive outcomes when pharmacists are permitted to prescribe MOUDs: better patient retention rates in treatment programs and reduced costs overall. It also addressed concerns about diversion of medication by stating that such incidents are rare and often occur when formal treatment is inaccessible.
In conclusion, McKenna said expanding pharmacist prescribing authority could help save lives by improving access to care: “By expanding access and reducing barriers…SB 562 would prepare Maryland to continue its fight against the overdose crisis.” She urged lawmakers to give favorable consideration to the bill.
