LAW TO ALLOW LOW-COST PRESCRIPTIONS GOES INTO EFFECT

AUGUSTA—A law sponsored by Senate Majority Leader Troy Jackson (D-Allagash) that allows Maine residents to obtain cheaper prescription drugs through an equivalent to Canada’s mail order prescription program known as CanaRx has gone into effect today.

“I am thrilled to see the law going into effect,” said Senator Jackson. “People that are looking to access life-saving drugs at a decent price can do so through international mail order pharmacies.  This low-cost option will put more money in the pockets of Mainers trying to make ends meet.”

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

The law is being challenged by the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA), and other pharmacy groups, who claim that the importation of international drugs poses health risks for American consumers.

Senator Jackson disputes the claim that mail order prescription drugs are any less safe than those sold in the U.S.

“We used CanaRx for nine years right here in Maine, and other states have used the program as well,” added Senator Jackson. “The low costs saved the state and municipalities money before the Republican Attorney General shut the program down in 2012.  This lawsuit isn’t about safety–it’s about big drug companies wanting to make more profits.”

Senator Jackson represents District 35, which is made up of Northern Aroostook County.  He is the previous Senate Chair of the Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry committee in the legislature and the current Majority Leader in the Maine Senate.

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