A recent report from the Alabama Department of Examiners of Public Accounts has revealed concerning financial and operational practices within the Alabama Board of Pharmacy. The report highlighted issues such as charging licensees higher fees than allowed by law, using deferral agreements to drop pending violations for higher fine amounts, and inaccurately reporting collected administrative costs and fines.
The board collected significant amounts in fines and fees, but the report raised questions about the classification and reporting of these funds as miscellaneous income. The report also pointed out violations of open meeting laws and raised concerns about the board’s financial management, including a large cash reserve of $4.3 million.
Some board members criticized the findings, while state lawmakers, including Rep. Kerry Underwood and Sen. Chris Elliott, expressed concerns about the board’s practices. Sen. Elliott called for reform, highlighting what he described as “atrocious management practices and governance” within the board.
The board defended its actions, stating that fines above statutory authority were determined based on the duration and severity of violations. They also defended the use of deferral agreements, noting that they have been in place for over a decade and are supervised by the Alabama Attorney General’s office.
The report is likely to fuel calls for reform and consolidation of licensing boards in Alabama. With concerns about financial mismanagement and governance, stakeholders are calling for greater transparency and accountability within the Alabama Board of Pharmacy.
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