SACRAMENTO – Assemblymember Juan Alanis announced that his proposal to require accessible prescription labeling has passed a full vote in the Assembly.
“This is a common-sense measure that aligns with federal recommendations,” said Assemblymember Alanis. “Pharmacies already provide language translations on their labels, but for some reason, those who are blind or low-vision have been left out for far too long.”
AB 1902 would require pharmacies to provide accessible prescription labels or supplemental documentation to patients who identify as blind or have low vision upon request.
If passed, AB 1902 would make California one of many states to require accessible labels for patients who are blind or have low vision. Chain pharmacies like CVS, Walgreens, and Rite Aid have already implemented this, but it is not yet a statewide mandate.
“We need to continue working toward making healthcare accessible and affordable to all citizens,” said the Assemblyman. “It is time to follow in the footsteps of states like Oregon and Nevada and make prescription labels that cater to all patient’s needs.”
AB 1902 passed through the Assembly without opposition. The bill now awaits referral to a Senate Committee. It is the fifth bill authored by the Assemblymember this year to pass in the Assembly.
Assemblymember Juan Alanis represents the 22nd Assembly District, which includes the communities of Modesto, Turlock, Ceres, Denair, Patterson, Gustine, Newman, Hilmar, Ballico, Snelling, Keyes, Grayson, Crows Landing, Diablo Grande, Stevinson, & Empire.