WASHINGTON—AARP Executive Vice President and Chief Advocacy and Engagement Officer Nancy LeaMond released the following statement in response to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) proposed rule to allow states and other entities to import certain prescription drugs: 

“AARP welcomes the HHS proposal to allow states for the first time to begin safely importing prescription drugs from Canada. The ability to import lower-priced medicines would help states manage their ever-tightening budgets, save taxpayers’ money, and lower drug costs for its citizens.   

“AARP’s millions of members fought for bipartisan legislation in Colorado, Florida, Maine, and Vermont through tele-townhalls, public forums, phone calls, grassroots, social media, and advertising to allow prescription drug importation in those states. The safe, legal importation of less expensive but equally effective drugs would be another crucial step toward bringing down costs and adding competitive pressure on drug companies to lower their prices in the U.S.

“Skyrocketing prescription drug prices hurt not only older adults but they also impact state budgets. Having the freedom to import less costly drugs will help states save money and better manage limited taxpayer-funded resources.

“Americans are fed up with paying the highest brand-name prescription drug prices in the world. There is broad support for lowering drug prices across political parties: 81% of Republicans, 77% of Democrats, and 85% of independents support safe importation of prescription medications.

“AARP applauds the Administration for this important proposal to help make prescription drugs both more affordable and accessible to older Americans.”

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About AARP
AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence and nearly 38 million members, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation's largest circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org or follow @AARP and @AARPadvocates on social media.

Media Contact: Greg Phillips, 202-434-2560, gphillips@aarp.org, @AARPmedia