SB19 allows pharmacists to dispense ivermectin to adults under a standing order from a licensed healthcare professional authorized by the Department of Health. The department must set dispensing procedures through rulemaking. Pharmacies may charge an administrative fee in addition to normal costs, and pharmacists are granted civil immunity when acting in compliance with the law. Health insurers are not required to cover ivermectin dispensed under this provision.
The Louisiana State House of Representatives passed SB19 on June 6, 2025 by a vote of 67 to 26. We have assigned pluses to the ayes because this bill restores a measure of medical freedom that federal agencies and corporate media have spent years undermining. As The New American has documented, ivermectin was relentlessly attacked during Covid—despite strong safety records, widespread global use, and mounting evidence supporting its benefits—while federal regulators waged a public campaign to discourage doctors and patients from using a lawful medication. Empowering pharmacists to dispense ivermectin under a standing order pushes back against that politicized crusade, removes unnecessary barriers to care, and reinforces the principle that patients and healthcare professionals—not federal bureaucrats—should make treatment decisions.
United States Constitution
Fifth Amendment
No person shall be held to answer for a capital, or otherwise infamous crime, unless on a presentment or indictment of a Grand Jury, except in cases arising in the land or naval forces, or in the Militia, when in actual service in time of War or public danger; nor shall any person be subject for the same offence to be twice put in jeopardy of life or limb; nor shall be compelled in any criminal case to be a witness against himself, nor be deprived of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law; nor shall private property be taken for public use, without just compensation.
United States Constitution
Ninth Amendment
The enumeration in the Constitution, of certain rights, shall not be construed to deny or disparage others retained by the people.
United States Constitution
14th Amendment Section 1
All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the State wherein they reside. No State shall make or enforce any law which shall abridge the privileges or immunities of citizens of the United States; nor shall any State deprive any person of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law; nor deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws.
