Washington § 69.41.040 - Prescription requirements — Penalty.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 69.41.040 — Prescription requirements — Penalty., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 69.41.040. Prescription requirements — Penalty.

(1) A prescription, in order to be effective in legalizing the possession of legend drugs, must be issued for a legitimate medical purpose by one authorized to prescribe the use of such legend drugs. Except as provided in RCW 69.41.095, an order purporting to be a prescription issued to a drug abuser or habitual user of legend drugs, not in the course of professional treatment, is not a prescription within the meaning and intent of this section; and the person who knows or should know that he or she is filling such an order, as well as the person issuing it, may be charged with violation of this chapter. A legitimate medical purpose shall include use in the course of a bona fide research program in conjunction with a hospital or university.
(2) A violation of this section is a class B felony punishable according to chapter 9A.20 RCW.
[ 2015 c 205 s 3; 2003 c 53 s 324; 1973 1st ex.s. c 186 s 4.]

Notes

Intent—2015 c 205: See note following RCW 69.41.095.
Intent—Effective date—2003 c 53: See notes following RCW 2.48.180.

Source: official Washington text · Last verified 2026-08-27

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Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 69.41.040

What does Revised Code of Washington § 69.41.040 cover?

Section 69.41.040 ("Prescription requirements — Penalty.") is part of the Revised Code of Washington, the codified statutory law of Washington. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Washington § 69.41.040?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 69.41.040" (Washington). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Washington law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Washington official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Washington attorney.

How does Washington § 69.41.040 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Washington can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

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