LANSING, Mich. — Sen. Ruth Johnson will join U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow and other state leaders at an AARP Michigan rally in Detroit on Monday to highlight efforts to reduce the cost of prescription drugs.
Who:
Sen. Ruth Johnson, R-Holly;
Paula D. Cunningham, state director of AARP Michigan;
U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow, D-Lansing;
U.S. Rep. Debbie Dingell, D-Dearborn;
Rep. Hank Vaupel, R-Fowlerville;
Rep. Kevin Hertel, D-St. Clair Shores; and
Rep. John Chirkun, D-Roseville.
What:
Johnson will speak about her bill to establish a Canadian drug importation program in Michigan on Monday during an AARP Michigan rally along the Detroit River to spread awareness about the high cost of prescription drugs and efforts to address the problem.
When:
Monday, Nov. 18
11 a.m.
Where:
Waterview Loft
130 E. Atwater St.
Detroit
Note:
Johnson will also be available for phone interviews before and after the event. Contact Josh Haley in her office at 989-992-4698 to schedule an interview.
According to AARP, the annual cost of prescription drug treatment rose 57.8% between 2012 and 2017, while annual incomes in Michigan increased only 10.9%. It’s estimated that one-third of Michigan patients are not taking prescribed medication because they cannot afford it.
In September, Johnson introduced Senate Bill 525, which would allow the state to create a prescription drug importation system for the express purpose of reducing the cost of prescribed medications for Michigan consumers.
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