Idaho State Senator Tammy Nichols (R) introduced a bill that would allow ivermectin to be sold over the counter without a prescription.
Presenting the bill, Sen. Nichols said ivermectin has been “safely used for over forty years and it has become one of the most essential and trusted medicines worldwide.” She further explained that the bill affirms that “Idahoans have the freedom to access safe and effective treatment without unnecessary regulatory barriers.”
“Ivermectin has a long history of safe use, and removing prescription requirements enhances health care freedom, reduces burdens on providers, and ensures Idahoans can access it without unnecessary restrictions,” the bill’s statement of purpose reads.
A bill pertaining to ivermectin was also introduced in the Idaho House.
Last week, Arkansas Governor Sarah Sanders (R) signed a bill permitting ivermectin to be sold over the counter.
According to Senate Bill 189, ivermectin “suitable for human use may be sold or purchased as an over-the-counter medication in this state without a prescription or consultation with a healthcare professional.” The law takes effect 90 days after the legislature adjourns.
The push to make ivermectin available over the counter follows Idaho Governor Brad Little (R) vetoing a bill that would have banned medical mandates. “Medical freedom is an Idaho value. However, this bill removes parents’ freedom to ensure their children stay healthy at school because it jeopardizes the ability of schools to send home sick students with highly contagious conditions including measles, lice, ringworm, pink eye, strep throat, stomach viruses, the flu, and other illnesses that disrupt families’ lives,” Little wrote in a letter explaining his veto.
The Idaho Medical Freedom Act would have prevented businesses, schools, and governments from implementing medical requirements for employment, event admission, or transportation.
