Revised MA gift ban law relaxes, adds requirements

Device and drug makers can cover "modest" meals and alcohol in the context of providing medical education as part of final changes the state's Public Health Council approved recently that relax the Massachusetts gift ban law. But they may face new scrutiny there over how they spend their marketing money when providers are involved. Pharmalot reports that the council also signed off on an amendment that allows the Department of Public Health commissioner to seek additional details about marketing-related meals provided by device and drug makers. That information could cover a wide range of industry expenses, including everything from rental of venues, to meals and booze, according to the story. Massachusetts legislators initially passed the gift ban law in 2008 and approved revisions in June; while the council passed emergency revisions in September. Story