SENATE EXPANDS ACCESS TO LOWER-COST PRESCRIPTION DRUGS

Measure allows use of CanaRX

AUGUSTA–Today in a 29-5 vote the Senate voted to allow Maine residents to obtain cheaper prescription drugs through an equivalent to Canada’s mail order prescription program known as CanaRX.

“Many folks have to turn to mail order pharmacies for their prescriptions, but international mail order pharmacies, which are often more affordable, cannot be licensed under current law.  This does a disservice to consumers,” said Assistant Senate Majority Leader Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, the sponsor of the bill. “People in my district have been buying medicine from Canada for years. It’s safe, it’s reliable, and it’s affordable.”

This measure amends the Maine Pharmacy Act to authorize the licensing of international mail order pharmacies and the importation of prescription medications to residents of Maine.

“I have prescribed medicine from Canadian pharmacies because it is so much cheaper,” said Senator Geoff Gratwick, D-Bangor, a practicing physician who is licensed in Maine and in Canada. “U.S. drug prices are outrageous–they are obscene. Anything we can do to reduce drug costs for patients is a good thing.”

Senator Gratwick added, “Patient health is jeopardized by not getting medicine, not from getting medicine from Canada.”

Maine previously allowed participation in international mail order pharmacy plans, like CanaRX, until August 2012 when Republican Attorney General William Schneider ruled the plan was in violation of Maine law.

“I’m willing to challenge the law for the benefit of the citizens of Maine,” said Senator John Patrick, D-Rumford, the chair of the Labor Committee. “Passing this bill will benefit the three entities who previously used this program, and countless others who may consider it.”

The bill, LD 171, “An Act To Facilitate the Licensing of International Mail Order Prescription Pharmacies by the Maine Board of Pharmacy,” faces further votes in the House and the Senate.