Big U.S. seniors' group endorses bill on Canadian drug imports

[AmyStrange]

Big U.S. seniors' group endorses bill on Canadian drug imports
Wed Jun 16, 5:42 PM ET
BETH GORHAM

FROM: http://story.news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&u=/cpress/20040616/ca_pr_on_wo/us_cda_drugs_2
WASHINGTON (CP) - A key U.S. seniors' group is backing the latest bill that would allow Americans to import cheaper Canadian prescription drugs, a move that puts more pressure on the administration of President George W. Bush (news - web sites) in an election year.

AARP, which represents some 35 million people, said Wednesday the bi-partisan Senate bill is "another important step" in its efforts to lower the high cost of drugs for Americans, who pay up to 80 per cent more.

"It is a national embarrassment that citizens must purchase from other countries to afford prescription drugs," said AARP chief Bill Novelli.

"It is no longer a question of whether we should allow the importation of drugs from abroad. (It's) already happening on a large scale. We must ensure that there is a system in place for guaranteeing safety and cost savings."

But the legislation, which would phase in imports from other countries, is still meeting with stiff opposition from the White House, some senior Republican leaders and big drug companies that stand to lose huge profits.

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[Don_G]

1. Ya Think

After endorsing the inital bill to ban Canadian imports AND having only 400 seniors sign up for the AARP Prescription Drug Card, Novelli is waffling?

[MasonJar]

2. Running scared after bacling Bush's really appalling "pill bill."