Ivermectin Bill Receives Priority Status in Special Session

State Representative Joanne Shofner (R) announced this week that her legislation to reclassify ivermectin as an over-the-counter medication has received a House Speaker priority bill number during the ongoing special session.

 House Bill 25, referred to as the “Ivermectin Bill,” seeks to expand patient access by allowing pharmacists to dispense the drug without requiring a prescription from a healthcare provider.

State Rep. Shofner, who represents House District 11, called the designation “an honor” and emphasized its significance.

“This is a matter of public access, individual liberty, and healthcare autonomy,” she said. “Texans deserve the freedom to access proven medications safely, without unnecessary barriers.”

Supporters argue that ivermectin, which has long been used worldwide in various health contexts, has a strong safety profile and should be more readily available. They point to pharmacist oversight, clear labeling, and responsible use instructions as safeguards that would align ivermectin with other over-the-counter medications that are currently accessible in Texas.

State Rep. Shofner secured 76 co-authors for the bill and received backing from Texans for Vaccine Choice, who recognized her as an MVP for her “continued advocacy for patient and medical freedom from excessive government overreach.”

The group also helped gather more than 7,000 signatures in a petition to the Governor’s Office advocating for greater access.

The proposal comes after House Bill 3219 passed out of the House Public Health Committee. The bill would have authorized the Texas Health and Human Services Commission to issue a standing order permitting pharmacists to dispense ivermectin.

Despite the support, the bill was placed on the General State Calendar but expired due to legislative deadlines.

House Bill 25 has now been designated as a Speaker priority, and state Rep. Shofner and her supporters are urging swift action.

“We respectfully request that this critical measure receive full consideration in the current special session,” she urged.