California Lawmakers Push Looser Pharmacy Staffing Requirements

A measure to loosen California’s pharmacy staffing requirements for drug stores advanced Monday in the state legislature.

A pharmacist would be allowed to supervise up to four technicians at once under the bill (SB 1365) approved by the state Senate Business, Professions and Economic Development Committee.

California law permits a pharmacist to supervise only one technician at a time, though the ratio increases to 2-to-1 if additional pharmacists are on duty.

Walgreens Boots Alliance, Rite Aid Corp and CVS Health Corp back the measure, which supporters argue would provide pharmacists with more assistance with their job and ...