How the state will mass dispense vaccinations or prescription drugs in case of a public emergency is defined in a new law.
Sponsored by Rep. Ryan Winkler (DFL-Golden Valley) and Sen. Yvonne Prettner Solon (DFL-Duluth), the law creates three dispensing methods: a designated representative of a household can pick up prescription drugs or vaccines for that household; postal carriers can deliver drugs to households; and it will create a closed point of dispensing in which a business, church or other organization will be a center for dispensing drugs to a limited number of people. A closed point will not be open to the public.
The law removes a sunset provision on a peace officer’s authority to use force if a person resists isolation and quarantine required by a court order.
The health commissioner is authorized to purchase vaccines, antitoxins, serums, immunizing agents, antibiotics, antivirals, antidotes, other pharmaceutical agents and medical supplies. The commissioner can also request Minnesota Responds Medical Reserve Corps health volunteers to help in case of emergency.
The law became effective May 8, 2009.
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