Statement: H.R. 3 Is Important Progress, But It Must Be Strengthened to Provide More Relief To Patients
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the Lower Drug Costs Now Act (H.R. 3) was reintroduced into the U.S. House of Representatives. Robert Weissman, president of Public Citizen, released the following statement:
“Even before the pandemic, patients facing drug corporations’ exploitative prices were rationing treatment while others endured financial hardship, sacrificing other needs to pay for medicines.
“Drug corporations believe they have won reprieve from reform through association with COVID-19 vaccines – the development of which was heavily subsidized by taxpayers) – but they are wrong. Until Congress and President Joe Biden respond to Americans’ ongoing hardship through robust drug pricing reform, people’s demand for action will persist.
“H.R. 3’s reintroduction marks important progress – indeed, the Lower Drug Price Now Act as it passed out of the House in 2019 was the most meaningful measure to lower drug prices to ever pass out of the chamber. However, all Americans require relief, regardless of medical condition, insurance provider or status, and today’s proposal must be strengthened to ensure it benefits everyone.
“Public Citizen looks forward to working with Democratic leaders to advance vital drug pricing reform.”