The article is highly misleading in this respect. The restrictions are contractual and imposed upon Pfizer&#x27;s distributors&#x2F;resalers. State governments must also certify that purchases won&#x27;t be used for executions. Likely the only consequence for violations is being blacklisted by Pfizer.<p>The original press release[1] states:<p>&gt; Pfizer’s distribution restriction limits the sale of these seven products to a select group of wholesalers, distributors, and direct purchasers under the condition that they will not resell these products to correctional institutions for use in lethal injections. Government purchasing entities must certify that products they purchase or otherwise acquire are used only for medically prescribed patient care and not for any penal purposes. Pfizer further requires that these Government purchasers certify that the product is for “own use” and will not resell or otherwise 
provide the restricted products to any other party.<p>&gt; Pfizer will consistently monitor the distribution of these seven products, act upon findings that reveal noncompliance, and modify policies when necessary to remain consistent with our stated position against the improper use of our products 
in lethal injections. Importantly, this distribution system is also designed to ensure that these critical medications will remain immediately available to those patients who rely on them every day.<p>[1]: <a href="http:&#x2F;&#x2F;www.pfizer.com&#x2F;files&#x2F;b2b&#x2F;GlobalPolicyPaperLethalInjection.pdf" rel="nofollow">http:&#x2F;&#x2F;www.pfizer.com&#x2F;files&#x2F;b2b&#x2F;GlobalPolicyPaperLethalInjec...</a>