Tweaks to Prescription Drug Law Get Initial OK

Lawmakers are considering modifications to Kentucky's prescription drug law to exempt patients in hospitals, nursing homes and hospice centers from rules intended to make it more difficult for addicts to get painkillers.
 
The House Judiciary Committee voted 15-0 on Monday to approve the modifications.
 
House Speaker Greg Stumbo said the changes are warranted because patients in those facilities are not likely to sell their medications.
 
Lawmakers passed a tough drug law last year in an attempt to crack down on widespread prescription drug abuse. But Stumbo said the law had some unintended consequences that needed to be worked out on behalf of legitimate patients.