How the state will mass dispense vaccinations or prescription drugs in the case of a public emergency are defined in a bill now awaiting signature by Gov. Tim Pawlenty.
HF1554/SF1462*, sponsored by Rep. Ryan Winkler (DFL-Golden Valley) and Sen. Yvonne Prettner Solon (DFL-Duluth), was passed 122-8 by the House May 5; 57-6 by the Senate April 30.
It would create three dispensing methods: a designated representative of a household could pick up prescription drugs or vaccines for that household; postal carriers could deliver drugs to households; and a closed-point of dispensing in which a business, church or other organization could be a center for dispensing drugs to a limited number of people. A closed-point would not be open to the public.
The bill would remove a sunset provision on peace officer’s authority to use force when a person resists isolation and quarantine required by a court order.
The health commissioner would be authorized to purchase vaccines, antitoxins, serums, immunizing agents, antibiotics, antivirals, antidotes, other pharmaceutical agents and medical supplies. The commissioner could also request Minnesota Responds Medical Reserve Corps health volunteers to help in case of emergency.
Rep. Mary Liz Holberg (R-Lakeville) said the changes could minimize individual people’s rights and have never been “road tested.”
Winkler responded that until the state “road tests” the changes, “we’re not going have any kind of results.”
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