Drug Take-Back Programs: Calif. Handed The Industry A Win After It Lost In Wash.
Areas in both states were considering ordinances that would require drug companies to be responsible for consumers' unused or unwanted medication.
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Pharma Loses One Battle Over Drug Take-Back Programs, But Wins Another
The latest skirmishes over drug take-back programs yielded a mixed outcome this week for the pharmaceutical industry, which has been battling local governments that want drug makers to pick up the tab. Two days ago, officials in Snohomish County, Wash., voted unanimously to require drug companies to run a program that would allow consumers to dispose of unwanted and unused medicines. At the same, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors delayed passing a similar ordinance until November, when they will review an existing disposal program that is not financed by industry. (Silverman, 6/16)