New Law Allows Access to Lower-Cost Prescription Drugs
New law allows use of CanaRX
AUGUSTA–A measure sponsored by Assistant Senate Majority Leader Troy Jackson of Allagash that allows Maine residents to obtain less expensive prescription drugs through an equivalent to Canada’s mail order prescription program known as CanaRX has become law.
“I am thrilled that this important bill has become law,” said Senator Jackson. “People need to be able to access life-saving drugs at a reasonable price, and this law gives Mainers more options while still allowing Maine pharmacies to negotiate with CanaRx.”
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.
Maine previously allowed participation in international mail order pharmacy plans, like CanaRX, until August 2012 when the Attorney General under the Republican-controlled legislature, William Schneider, ruled the plan was in violation of Maine law.
The bill, LD 171, “An Act To Facilitate the Licensing of International Mail Order Prescription Pharmacies by the Maine Board of Pharmacy,” was enacted by the Maine Senate on June 14th by a vote of 30-4 and became law without the governor’s signature.
###