A Statement from the Governor

A STATEMENT FROM THE GOVERNOR

July 11, 2006

The following is a statement from Governor Tim Pawlenty regarding today's vote in the U.S. Senate to let Americans import prescription drugs from Canada.

"The Senate's action is appreciated, but should've happened several years ago. We are glad the Senate is finally following Minnesota's lead in allowing people to purchase safe and more affordable prescriptions from Canada."

The U.S. Senate voted 68-32 today to allow for the importation of prescription drugs into the United States from Canada. The measure was offered as part of a $31.7 billion Homeland Security Department spending plan for the new federal fiscal year that begins on October. 1

Even with Medicare Part D, there are many people who need assistance in paying for prescription drugs. Minnesota has been a leader in this area, launching the nation's first state-based prescription website in January 2004. More than 20,000 prescriptions have been filled through four Canadian pharmacies affiliated with the site since that time.

In June 2005, the site was expanded to include pharmacies in the United Kingdom that have relationships with the Canadian pharmacies.

Last month, the site was expanded to include a new feature called Minnesota RxPrice Compare that allows Minnesotans to comparison shop prescription drug prices at more than 1,000 local pharmacies.

http://www.governor.state.mn.us/mediacenter/pressreleases/PROD007696.html