Prescription-tracking bill passes Missouri House

The Missouri House has approved legislation allowing creation of a database to track purchases of prescription drugs. Missouri is the only state without legislation authorizing such a database. The House passed the bill Thursday on a vote of 112-32, and it now goes to the Senate.

Pharmacies would submit the names of people who buy a prescription drug, the quantity and date and other details. The data would be considered confidential but could be provided to doctors, pharmacists, regulators and law officers who have a subpoena or court order.

Opponents cite concerns about data breaches and the potential for misusing the information. But sponsoring House member Kevin Engler says people are dying and becoming addicted while abusing prescription drugs. He says that should supersede potential problems.