Pharmacists authorized to initiate, prescribe, administer, and dispense drugs for the treatment of opioid use disorder; and grounds for disciplinary action for pharmacists and pharmacist interns modified.

This bill expands the scope of practice for pharmacists in Minnesota by authorizing them to initiate, prescribe, administer, and dispense medications for treating opioid use disorder. It directly affects licensed pharmacists and pharmacist interns, allowing them to work under protocols or collaborative agreements with other healthcare providers to manage opioid use disorder treatment. The legislation also updates the legal definition of "practitioner" to include pharmacists authorized to prescribe certain medications and modifies disciplinary grounds for pharmacists and interns. These changes aim to increase access to opioid use disorder treatment through pharmacies while maintaining oversight through established healthcare partnerships.