Watch CBS News

2 'U' Students Fight For Prescription Drug Respository

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) -- Two University of Minnesota students are launching a prescription drug repository program to redistribute unused medications to people who are struggling to pay for their medicine.

Minnesota Public Radio News reports that pharmacy students Rowan Mahon and Hannah Van Ochten were behind the bill to set up the repository, which will begin next year. Gov. Tim Walz approved a state health budget that included the measure this spring.

The new law allows care facilities to send unused pills to a central repository, where they'll undergo safety checks.

Mahon says the medicine can't be expired or show signs of tampering.

Once cleared for use, the drugs can be distributed at reduced prices for people in need.

Mahon is applying for grants and fundraising to get the program off the ground.

(© Copyright 2019 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.