Doctors would have to send prescriptions for opioid drugs to pharmacies by electronic messaging instead of paper prescriptions, according a new law signed by Gov. Jared Polis on Monday.

Senate Bill 79 is aimed at eliminating fraudulent drug prescriptions and requires providers to deal directly with pharmacies by phone or computer when ordering opioid painkillers for a patient.

The bill had broad bipartisan support, winning near unanimous approval in the House and Senate.

Rep. Daneya Esgar, D-Pueblo, was the House sponsor and noted that fake prescription pads are easily obtainable on the internet.

"This new law will streamline responsible prescribing practices so we can help to decrease the chance of someone falling into the cycle of addiction," Esgar said in a statement.

The regulations controlling the new policy will be developed by state oversight boards.

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