Controlled Substance Licensing Amendments

HB 543 creates a new "controlled substance certification" requirement for healthcare practitioners in Utah who distribute, dispense, or administer controlled substances. Starting July 1, 2025, practitioners must obtain this certification - which requires active federal DEA registration and 3.5 hours of annual continuing education on controlled substances - to legally handle these medications, replacing the previous "controlled substance license." The bill affects licensed medical professionals (like doctors and pharmacists) whose practice involves controlled substances, while allowing those with existing licenses to continue operating until their current license expires. It updates multiple Utah Code sections to reflect this new certification system and repeals outdated licensing provisions.