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MarylandSB 07782026 Regular SessionSenate

Clinical Research Pharmacies and Clinical Trials - Permits and Ownership

Sponsored By: Brian J. Feldman (Democratic)

Signed by Governor

Health OccupationsApplicants and ApplicationsClassifications and DesignationsCommittees and CommissionsComplaintsDrugs -see also- Cannabis; ControlDangSubst; Pharm; etc.EthicsHealth Occupations -see also- (specific health occupations)Inspections -see also- Motor Vehicle InspectionInvestigations and Inquiries -see also- Crim Bckgrnd InvestLicenses -see also- AB Lic; Certifications; DrLic; PermitsMedical ResearchPermits -see also- Building PermitsPharmacists and Pharmacies -see also- DrugsRules and RegulationsSafety -see also- Occupational SafetyStandards and Best PracticesStorage

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

2 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 0 costs, 2 mixed.

New permit rules for research pharmacies

Beginning October 1, 2026, each Maryland clinical research pharmacy location needs a Board of Pharmacy permit before opening or operating. Drug handling and services must be limited to research under review-board protocols meeting FDA guidelines; only trial participants can receive drugs, not retail customers. Pharmacies must follow United States Pharmacopeia and Board storage and security rules, plus additional Board requirements. The Board must set operating, application, inspection, and permit suspension and revocation rules, including compounding standards. Relevant health boards may investigate employees for unlicensed practice, practicing with unauthorized people, or other professional-law violations within their authority.

More ownership options, but pharmacy safeguards

Beginning October 1, 2026, people can own Maryland clinical research pharmacies without a health-profession license, certification, or authorization just for ownership. Lack of that credential alone cannot justify discipline against the pharmacy. Health care provider owners must meet the pharmacy permit requirements. Their pharmacies need a licensed pharmacist onsite throughout operating hours, responsible for compounding, dispensing, and overseeing services; owners cannot compromise pharmacists’ professional judgment. Providers with substantial ownership stakes cannot serve as investigators for their pharmacy’s research protocols, direct patients to one pharmacist or pharmacy, or receive referral payments.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

  • Brian J. Feldman

    Democratic • Senate

Cosponsors

There are no cosponsors for this bill.

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 171 • No: 6

House vote • 4/13/2026

Third Reading Passed

Yes: 129 • No: 6 • Other: 5

Senate vote • 3/20/2026

Third Reading Passed

Yes: 42 • No: 0 • Other: 1

Actions Timeline

  1. Approved by the Governor - Chapter 206

    4/28/2026

  2. Returned Passed

    4/13/2026Senate

  3. Third Reading Passed (129-6)

    4/13/2026House

  4. Favorable Adopted Second Reading Passed

    4/11/2026House

  5. Favorable Report by Health

    4/11/2026House

  6. Hearing 4/02 at 1:00 p.m.

    3/25/2026House

  7. Referred Health

    3/21/2026House

  8. Third Reading Passed (42-0)

    3/20/2026Senate

  9. Second Reading Passed with Amendments

    3/19/2026Senate

  10. Favorable with Amendments {993324/1 Adopted

    3/19/2026Senate

  11. Favorable with Amendments Report by Finance

    3/19/2026Senate

  12. Hearing 3/03 at 1:00 p.m.

    2/12/2026Senate

  13. First Reading Finance

    2/6/2026Senate

Bill Text

  • Enacted

    4/28/2026

    PDF

  • Third Reading

    3/19/2026

    PDF

  • First Reading

    2/6/2026

    PDF

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