Emanuel Statement: Governor Blagojevich Looks to Europe As Possible Source of Prescription Drug Importation

CHICAGO, IL—U.S. Representative Rahm Emanuel (D-IL) released the following statement at a press conference today where Governor Blagojevich will direct the Illinois Special Advocate to review the prices and safety of the European prescription drug market.

“I am proud to stand with Governor Blagojevich today as he takes another bold step to protect Illinois taxpayers and consumers from skyrocketing prescription drug prices.  People travel to the United States from all over the world for their medical care, but Americans have to go all over the world for their medications.  A Families USA study found that the prices of the 50 drugs most used by seniors increased by THREE AND A HALF TIMES the rate of inflation over the past year.  And between 2000 and 2003, seniors’ expenditures on prescription drugs increased by 44 percent.

This European review will show what the Canadian one did, and more:  Importation means more competition; more choices; more money taxpayers save; and more consumers who can afford their drugs.

In light of recent efforts by drug companies to shut off supply to Canadian pharmacies who import to the United States, it is necessary to look beyond Canada for a long-term solution to unaffordable prescription drugs.  Prescription drugs in Europe are often even LESS EXPENSIVE than they are in Canada.  For example, Zocor, a cholesterol drug, costs $123.43 here in the U.S., $45.49 in Canada, and just $28 in Europe.  In addition, the much larger size of the European market helps bring competition and choice which drive down prices.

This election year will keep importation a hot issue in Washington.  My bill that passed the House last year relied on importing drugs from 26 countries, to spread out competition and create choice in the market.  I am working with my Senate colleagues on passing a companion bill, which also would include Canada and Europe.

While the pharmaceutical companies continue their efforts to cut off supply to Canadian pharmacies and thwart importation, they will not break the resolve of the millions of Americans who rely on importation for safe and affordable prescription drugs.

According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, 29 percent of seniors have not filled prescriptions because they could not afford them.  This is a tragic problem that demands a national solution.  Until the federal government acts, the burden is placed on state and local governments, who are taking matters into their own hands.

In more than half the states, Governors, legislators, and mayors are taking steps to allow state residents to purchase drugs from Canada.  They are looking at their options, and choosing to look to drug importation to help their state employees, their seniors, and all of their taxpayers.

I thank and applaud my governor as he continues his fight for lower drug prices for the people of Illinois and all Americans.”