Missouri HIV-drug measure advances

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — A bill that would make it easier to obtain drugs to prevent HIV infection won easy approval in the Missouri House.

The proposal, sponsored by Rep. Phil Christofanelli, a Republican from St. Peters, would allow people to go to pharmacies to obtain pre- and post-exposure drugs to prevent HIV infection, The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reported.

It was supported by 148 lawmakers from both parties Monday, with seven Republicans voting “present.” The measure now goes to the Senate.

Christofanelli said he believes people should be able to access the drugs wherever it is most convenient because the drugs can save lives.

The bill would require pharmacists to distribute the drugs with the supervision of a licensed physician and follow strict protocols. Patients would have to follow up with a physician and receive a prescription to get more than a 30-day supply of the pre-exposure medication.