LANSING, Mich. — Sen. Ruth Johnson on Thursday introduced legislation to create a prescription importation system in Michigan to help consumers save money on doctor-prescribed medication. If it becomes law, Michigan consumers will be able to save money by purchasing prescriptions from Canada at huge discounts, while protecting the quality of their medications.
“For years, Michigan patients have struggled to afford the inflated prices of lifesaving and quality-of-life prescriptions while people in Canada can get the exact same medication for a fraction of the cost,” said Johnson, R-Holly. “My bill would allow the people of Michigan to purchase high quality prescriptions at rates up to 10 times lower than our current prices in Michigan.”
Senate Bill 525 would allow Michigan to establish a Canadian drug importation program for the expressed purpose of reducing the cost of prescription drugs for Michigan consumers.
“One-third of Michiganders are not taking the medication prescribed by their doctors because they can’t afford it. That’s unacceptable,” said Paula D. Cunningham, state director of AARP Michigan. “Proposed law changes, such as enabling drug importation from Canada, can provide some relief for many of these families. During our travels across the state we’ve heard numerous stories from individuals who drive to Canada to purchase lower-priced drugs. No American should have to do that.”
SB 525 has been referred to the Senate Health Policy and Human Services Committee for consideration.
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